Giving incubated chicks to a broody hen

[Rethia]

Hi all! I'm on my third incubate of eggs and entering new territory. My friend has two broody hens, a young (6-7mo) Americauna that's been sitting for a few weeks, and another young hen that's a barred rock that's about the same age.

I have two questions, mostly.

1. What's the best time of day to switch out the eggs with the chicks after they've hatched? I've seen differing opinions on whether it's better to do it when the hen is asleep or in the evening before sleeping or super early morning so you can keep an eye on the hen's behavior with the chicks.

2. I know that young broodys aren't always supposed to be the best moms and I know it's kind of a gamble with any untested mom. How long do you need to monitor the mom hen's behavior before you can tell that she's actually accepted the chicks?

Thanks! Two of thirteen eggs have pipped so figured I should get the timing figured out.

 

[DobieLover]

What's the best time of day to switch out the eggs with the chicks after they've hatched?

It's best to do it after nightfall when it is dark and the hen can't see well. Slip your hand under her and remove all the eggs and then one by one slip the chicks under her. You may need to slip them in from the side or back if she's going to peck at your hands because she may reach under an accidentally peck a chick.

How long do you need to monitor the mom hen's behavior before you can tell that she's actually accepted the chicks?

The hen is usually still in a broody trance when you put the chicks under her at night. As long as she doesn't reach under herself and start pecking that's a good sign. Stay out for a few minutes and make sure she just settles down. Then be out before dawn in the morning to see how she is with the chicks. If she's still just sitting there and the chicks are peeping or moving around under her all is well. Check on her a few times during the day to make sure that things are still good. If she starts talking to them that is an excellent sign that she has fully accepted them.