Chicks hatching!!! I have a question?

[amcconnell]

I have 9 eggs under a Buff Orpington and they have started to hatch. Do I need to check under her and keep an eye on things or do I just leave her alone? Of course I'm curious as to how many have hatched as of now and how many we have to go and the whole process but I don't want to interfere and harm any of the chicks in the hatching process. What to do?

 

[shamarcg]

i think you should leave them until they have hatched, as if you try to look under her, she might get a bit feisty, and can do a lot of harm to the chicks,so just wait it out a little i would suggest.

 

[amcconnell]

Ok....will sit it out and wait. Thanks again

 

[bHen]

I would say it depends on the hen... Some of my hens could care less if I peek, others go for blood. Just be careful she doesn't mash any chicks if you do look! Also, I would watch for her to leave the nest before all eggs are hatched. They may not have been laid on thesame day and may need to go to the bator for a day or two...

 

[amcconnell]

Thanks for the advice. The chicks started hatching this morning so when should I check under her?

 

[lclough1998]

I would just leave her alone to hatch, much like lockdown in a incubator as the chicks are trying to get out of the eggs and the disruption of mom walking on the eggs doesnt help them and could squash them.