First Hatchling under Buff Orp Hen, She seemed to want to eat it!

[AlaskaBuffs]

Hello,
My first broody, had her first egg hatch this morning. I had gone out and checked at 8, and the first egg to do anything had a pip hole, then at noon, I went out, and the chick was out and dry under the hen. The Mama looked at the baby and started pecking it, and trying to eat the leg like a worm. Will they really eat their chicks? I did not wait to find out.

Is it my fault? Should I have not checked. I have the chick inside under a light. This is the first time this hen has hatched any eggs. Me too!

I am hoping that some of the other 6 eggs that are under her will hatch, all will be ok, and I can slip this one under her. They are buff orpingtons, so I will be devestated if this mom is not a good mom. They are supposed to be!

Thanks.
Deedra

 

[AngieChick]

From what I understand they can and will kill their chicks. Once they hatch, I would keep taking them away from her and plan on having them in a brooder. I wouldn't trust her.

At least watch her very, very carefully with the new ones.

 

[AlaskaBuffs]

Thanks,
That is what I am thinking.........Bummer.
Nice to have a fuzzy little ball in the house! I love this.

Deedra

 

[redhen]

wow! i never knew they ate their babies! disturbing!!

 

[AlaskaBuffs]

I placed the chick back in with the mom, she seems to be doing well. There are 4 hatched, w/ 1 to go. I removed the ones that were duds. They are so cute! Actually as I was checking one of the eggs, the little thing finished unzipping the top right in my hand! They are doing good.

 

[AngieChick]

Oh, that's great! I'm glad her little brain worked it all out. I would still keep a close eye on her, as she's a new mommy and therefor unpredictable.