Help! Can I give chicks back to a broddy hen? *Update*

[chickboss]

I am getting ready to take the chick out now. Two of the eggs were rotten, and one almost completely zipped but then died. I don't know why. There was so much action from that egg, that I wasn't even worried about it. The chick was fully developed and normal looking. Would have been a little white one to..

So there is one little chick, and we'll see how it goes. Thanks for wishing me luck, it's been a hard day, I hope this goes right. I don't know where to find another day old chick if it doesn't. LOL, poor thing has been peeping its head off for the last 24 + hours waiting for company. Here we go...

 

[chickboss]

I'm going back over there right now, just came up to set the eggs that we put under her in the bator. She didn't do anything. Just sat there. Didn't talk to the baby, or act hostile. Just nothing, like I didn't even make the switch. What does that mean?

 

[chickboss]

Well, It's 2:30 AMish, and baby is still alive and well down there tucked under Momma. She even seemed more protective. Will check them agian at 5:30 am. I am hoping all goes well at daybreak because my youngest DD is terrified that it isn't going to go well.

I checked at 5:30a.m. and chick was still tucked in under mom, but I heard some peeps so knew that things were okay. Checked again, and it was the same. LOL, now I am wondering if Momma is going to let her little one come out.....

 

[Kittymomma]

She might keep it tucked under her for a day or two. They can go for a couple of days just living off the absorbed yolk so it will be fine. I think the hens do this to give the other eggs (I know she doesn't have any, but she doesn't) a chance to hatch. Based on what I've seen with my broody girls I think you're home free.

ETA: I'm sorry about your chick that zipped but didn't make it. I've had a few do that and it's just heartbreaking when they get that close but aren't strong enough to live.

 

[chickboss]

Thanks Kittymomma. I think we are home free to. Each time I checked on them today, if the chick went away from her by just a little bit, she would make these low soft clucks. So sweet. The little chick spent the hot part of the day perched on Momma's back. I was sad about that egg , it was from my oldest DD's favorite hen, she was really looking forward to that chick. I guess only nature knows sometimes..

I may try to get a pic of them tomarrow, they are so sweet together. I am relieved big time, and will be happy to get some sleep tonight!

 

[jaruca]

Yay! I'm glad it worked out for you. Watching a Mama hen with her chick(s) is the best.

 

[Jarsheart]

Thanks for updating this post. I am looking to do the same thing, and am encourgaged by your success !! Congrats !!