Eggs hatching, need help!

[awalters0815]

The eggs under my broody hen have started hatching. three hatched today, a day early. Should I leave the chicks with mama until the others hatch, or should I take them to food and water? Also, they are in an elevated nest. Should I move them to the floor?

 

[cassidy22]

Can you put a small waterer and feeder in her nest? I wouldn't want to disturb the unhatched eggs. But if you feel the little ones are at risk for falling, move them someplace safe where mama can watch over them, and give her food and water really close so she can take care of herself.

We found some newly hatched babies with their mama last spring, and we moved them all inside a room where the chicks could not get out, but she could still protect them. And they were inside where hawks couldn't get them.

I don't know, I wouldn't want the mama to abandon the unhatched eggs because you moved them, but she will likely stick near those chicks like glue, if you do move them all.

 

[awalters0815]

Will the chicks be okay with out food and water for 24 hours or so?

 

[suebee]

Yes, they won't need food or water for about 3 days. They're getting nourishment from the yolk they absorbed. Keep all the chicks with Mom until they all hatch.
You could move mom and babies, unhatched eggs in a secure place on the floor, or just put a screen over the elevated nest.

 

[awalters0815]

Yes, they won't need food or water for about 3 days. They're getting nourishment from the yolk they absorbed. Keep all the chicks with Mom until they all hatch.

Awesome. that makes me feel a lot better.