Hatching with a Broody Hen

[KarleeB]

First time hatcher here - is it bad to check under the broody hen at day 20? We can hear peeps but no chicks have emerged as of yet. We peeked under quickly to see 3 peeped and one half out of the egg. Hours later and still seems to be no change. Could it have been bad to peek under her?

 

[One Click]

A quick look is typically acceptable, but it's crucial to avoid upsetting the hen or the chicks too much. Give the chicks room to grow and allow the broody hen take care of the process; they need time to properly hatch.

 

[KarleeB]

A quick look is typically acceptable, but it's crucial to avoid upsetting the hen or the chicks too much. Give the chicks room to grow and allow the broody hen take care of the process; they need time to properly hatch.

Thank you we will be strictly hands off from here on out...at what point would you be starting to look and check etc?

 

[One Click]

You're welcome!
As per my expeience n review
It's best to let the hen handle things, but you can check in around day 22 or 23 if no more chicks have hatched by then. Just be gentle and quick, ensuring the hen and any chicks aren’t stressed or exposed to the cold for too long.

 

[Egg Snatcher]

I check my eggs under a broody while they are hatching about twice a day until they all have hatched. Have had no problems and your able to help any chicks that may be stuck in the egg.

 

[JacinLarkwell]

If the hen allows it, I check usually once a day when hatching. If the hen is uncomfortable with me nearby, I don't at all

 

[wrathsfarm]

If the hen allows it, I check usually once a day when hatching. If the hen is uncomfortable with me nearby, I don't at all

I do this also.... Some of my broodys are very comfortable with my hand, while others can be vicious.

 

[KarleeB]

Our hen seems to be very welcoming...she has been super stubborn during incubation and not moved once! So we have been feeding her and taking her out for poops once a day. I think this has definitely helped in making her super comfortable with us