Hen wants to be babies mom

[hgottman2]

We have chicks that are almost 7 weeks old. They have been in the coop for 6 weeks in the brooder that is separated from the older hens.

One hen was broody when they arrived, and she now seems to think they are her babies. For several weeks she has been pacing in front of their brooder. On two occasions when one has escaped she has rounded them up and not let them get by her.

I want to start allowing the babies to explore the coop during the day while the older hens are locked out, but I’m not sure if it is safe to allow her around them or if I should remove her. Monitoring for interactions is obviously importance if leaving her around them.

Could her behavior be territorial or is it likely a motherly instinct?

 

[JacinLarkwell]

You could let her have access and just watch for a bit. If she going to act aggressive, it will almost certainly happen almost immediately so you can j<st grab her real quick

 

[rosemarythyme]

Too bad you didn't try letting her have them once she noticed them, she might've done all the work for you.

I'd give her a shot and see how she reacts. It's probably way too late for the chicks to take to her, but she might be more tolerant of them.

 

[FrostRanger]

I agree, if a hen wants to play mother to chicks you're trying to integrate, I'd let her at it. Makes your job a whole lot easier as she'll handle the integration for you. It's rare for a hen to show such interest in adopting after leaving the nest, especially when they're older chicks, she's a very good bird to have around!

 

[hgottman2]

You could let her have access and just watch for a bit. If she going to act aggressive, it will almost certainly happen almost immediately so you can j<st grab her real quick

I a

I agree, if a hen wants to play mother to chicks you're trying to integrate, I'd let her at it. Makes your job a whole lot easier as she'll handle the integration for you. It's rare for a hen to show such interest in adopting after leaving the nest, especially when they're older chicks, she's a very good bird to have around!

I think it’s been a success! She is so happy to finally be with them!

 

[calychicken]

I think it’s been a success! She is so happy to finally be with them!

That's adorable

 

[hgottman2]

Too bad you didn't try letting her have them once she noticed them, she might've done all the work for you.

I'd give her a shot and see how she reacts. It's probably way too late for the chicks to take to her, but she might be more tolerant of them.

I considered that, but it was only my second time having babies. I was too nervous to let her have access to them.

She spent about 30 supervised minutes with them. When I exited the run she went with me. Now she is free ranging with the rest of the flock for the first time in weeks, but she is keeping a close eye on them while they are in the run.

Thanks for all the advice!

 

[rosemarythyme]

I think it’s been a success! She is so happy to finally be with them!

So darn cute, so happy to see the photo!