Did mom kill chick? Should I try again?

[ubermom]

I'm new to chickens and this is my first time trying to hatch anything with hens. I have 4 bantam hens and two of them (cochin and silkie) went broody so we got them some fertilized eggs to hatch. I got two quail eggs for the silkie because we thought that would be fun, and we were so excited when one of the eggs finally started to hatch. I only checked on it a couple of times in order to let the kids take a peek, and then I let it be because I didn't want to disturb things. When I checked on it later that evening, I found it laying dead about 3 feet away from the nest, and pecked quite badly (I'm glad my kids weren't with me that time). Is it common for first time moms to freak out and attack their chicks? Do you think it had to do with the fact that it wasn't a chicken? I wish I knew whether she killed the chick or if the chick died first and she was just getting rid of it. I've heard that silkies will mother just about anything, and she is such a sweet bird - she's never pecked at anyone. Even when she's broody she lets us handle her without a fuss. The other quail egg is not hatching and it's been more than 24 hours since the first one started so I don't think it will, but I would like to get some quail chicks, and I would love for them to be raised by one of the hens. Should I chance putting chicks with her? I've heard about the night time trick, but it still makes me nervous. Any help would be greatly appreciated!

 

[MakNat]

I would say give it a try. And yes at night is best. I've had hens throw chicks out, kill them before. I think it is a health issue (with the chicks ) that we don't know about. I doubt it was because it was a quail. Goods hens will hatch and raise just about anything!! Goodluck!

 

[Bat Cave Silkies]

I agree with MakNat. Who knows why the chick was out of the nest; so many possibilities.

Silkies make EXCELLENT mothers!! I'd give it a try--at night of course--and I'll bet she'll raise them.

 

[Soph xo]

sorry to hear about your dead chick, that's very sad

i would say yes, give it a go!
everyone knows how maternal silkies are