First time broody hen with first time owners

[oldwynooche]

Cleo went broody about 5-6 days ago. Now I no longer find any new eggs in the coop although there are 3 other perfectly good nesting boxes. I don't know if she kicked everyone else out if all the boxes or if they are all laying in her box. The coop is secure at night but once the door opens in the morning, the birds are free range. Two questions:
1) Will Chloe typically keep brand new chicks inside for a while if there's food and water for them? Or do they need a separate space inside the coop?
2). Will the rooster accept and protect them? Same for the other 3 hens?

 

[rosemarythyme]

I don't have an answer to your questions, but wondering: Did you mark her eggs so other hens aren't adding to the pile (which would cause a staggered hatch)?

 

[oldwynooche]

Thank you rosemarythyme I'll mark them tomorrow. I know I'm late, but it's the right thing to do.