Cochin accepting hatchery chicks?

[racuda]

I have a bantam Cochin that hatched 7 Guinea keets this morning. When I was at the farm store today I noticed Barred Rock chicks. They are 10 days old. I couldn't resist and brought home 4.

I put the chicks under the hen tonight. She didn't seem to mind and the chicks snuggled right under her.

What are the chances she will accept them in the morning, and is there anything I can do to help?

 

[Mahonri]

If the chicks are 10 days old there is a good chance she won't accept them.

 

[racuda]

Bummer.

 

[usschicago1]

i agree with mahonri. But i would still try and see. Cochins can surprise you

 

[racuda]

The reason I was hopeful was I have another Cochin who currently is mothering 3 separate hatches of keets, 2, 6 and 10 weeks old. The 2 week olds are hers and she accepted the others when they were 4 and 8 weeks old.

Maybe this other super maternal Cochin will take them.

 

[pgpoultry]

She may accept them. Some hens seem to be 'earth mothers' who will accept anything, whilst some turn out to be mean mommas who don't even seem to want their own (thankfully this is rare). Watch her closely.

Sandie