First time letting a broody hen hatch chicks….

[MeyersfamilyChickens]

In early September we had a hen hatch out 5 chicks they are doing great! They currently reside with the main flock but I don’t let the mom and babies free range (mostly cuz I don’t want anything to happen to them and I’m scared they won’t come back) Also because I plan to separate the babies and join them with the spring flock we currently have in a separate area. I’m newer to chickens so this is my first time hatching from our own eggs with our rooster. So I’m assuming it’s not recommended to keep any hens in the same flock as their father ?! But maybe that’s not as big of an issue as I’m making it? Any knowledge on this would be appreciated. Also if they should be separated at what age?

Thanks for your time!

Pics for tax

 

[sourland]

Inbreeding with chickens (unless from an already inbred family) generally does not cause problems.

 

[MeyersfamilyChickens]

Inbreeding with chickens (unless from an already inbred family) generally does not cause problems.

Thanks for the reply

 

[TexasBaybee]

In early September we had a hen hatch out 5 chicks they are doing great! They currently reside with the main flock but I don’t let the mom and babies free range (mostly cuz I don’t want anything to happen to them and I’m scared they won’t come back) Also because I plan to separate the babies and join them with the spring flock we currently have in a separate area. I’m newer to chickens so this is my first time hatching from our own eggs with our rooster. So I’m assuming it’s not recommended to keep any hens in the same flock as their father ?! But maybe that’s not as big of an issue as I’m making it? Any knowledge on this would be appreciated. Also if they should be separated at what age?

Thanks for your time!

Pics for tax

I have only y been doing this 5 years so I am sure someone more experienced may have advice. However, I let my hens hatch their eggs when I want to add to the flock. When the it gets close to hatching date I love hen and eggs to a secluded place. When eggs hatch I keep mom and chicks there, but several times a day I take mom and chicks out with the rest of the flock. My rooster has never done anything to chicks except for one time. older chick approached too and locked eyes and chick did not look away. Roo grabbed him by neck and flung it. A few weeks later that chick began to crow. So the not looking away after locking eyes was the baby challenging the rooster. My rooster shows the chicks things to eat just like mom. But one thing I have learned in the past 5 years is use others advice and experience as a guide. Not a guarantee.