I had six babies this morning, and ten when I counted about an hour ago. Right on time. Day 21. One baby was still very wet the last time I checked so I think they are still hatching out. She is still sitting on the two remaining eggs. A snake ate one of the eggs...that story here: https://www.backyardchickens.com/forum/viewtopic.php?id=322311
They HAVE to be sturdy little creatures with a strong will to survive as they have...against all odds I thought...survived being dumped out of the crate, and then just left on the ground while I caught and got rid of the snake. Then I moved the nest (yesterday afternoon) and the mommy hen was off of it for 45 minutes after at least one had pipped and started to zip while I caught her and convinced her to stay on the nest in the new location.
Even with ideal conditions I did not expect this tiny little banty OE to cover and hatch successfully all 13 eggs she had laid, and collected from her sisters, and mother. But she has hatched ten so far and all those were moving.
Terry in Tennessee
They HAVE to be sturdy little creatures with a strong will to survive as they have...against all odds I thought...survived being dumped out of the crate, and then just left on the ground while I caught and got rid of the snake. Then I moved the nest (yesterday afternoon) and the mommy hen was off of it for 45 minutes after at least one had pipped and started to zip while I caught her and convinced her to stay on the nest in the new location.
Even with ideal conditions I did not expect this tiny little banty OE to cover and hatch successfully all 13 eggs she had laid, and collected from her sisters, and mother. But she has hatched ten so far and all those were moving.
Terry in Tennessee
