Can you give a broody hen extra chicks?

[Littlefrizzle]

Hello everyone! I have a broody hen who just hatched out 2 chicks about 2 days ago. I candled the rest of the eggs and they weren't good. Would it be okay to give her extra chicks and whats the maximum age? the extra chicks would be around 5 days old. I have an extra brooder just incase she doesn't accept them. Thank you! sorry if this is a silly question.

 

[FC16]

Hello everyone! I have a broody hen who just hatched out 2 chicks about 2 days ago. I candled the rest of the eggs and they weren't good. Would it be okay to give her extra chicks and whats the maximum age? the extra chicks would be around 5 days old. I have an extra brooder just incase she doesn't accept them. Thank you! sorry if this is a silly question.

Yes it could work but it’s down to luck really, it’s good you’ve got a backup brooder just incase as there is a chance it may not work. It’s best if the new chicks are the same age as the chicks she has already has or she may figure somethings not right.
It’s also best to do it at night as that’s when chickens are sort of ‘less aware’ of things and there will be better chance of it working. As I said it’s not guaranteed but worth a try, good luck

 

[sourland]

Generally hens imprint on their chicks within 24 hours and any others are viewed as strangers. If they are the same color as her chicks, it may work, but have a 'Plan B' in mind.

 

[FC16]

Like @sourland said, I forgot to mention, the earlier the better. That’s when chances are highest.
I’ve seen a lot of stories however from larger flocks where there’s multiple broody hens roaming at the same time and the chicks have swapped hens. It is all down to luck really and what the hen chooses there’s not a lot you can do besides giving it a go and seeing what happens.

 

[Littlefrizzle]

Gotcha! thank you both so much, this is my first time with a broody. I really appreciate the advice

 

[Red Mangrove]

Sneak them in at night and don't let the hen see. It may work within 72 hours of hatching