Hen with babies

[fishingdude93]

When my hen has her babies should i take them away from her or let her raise them.

 

[dawnchick]

I have let my hens raise several batches of chicks, even in the winter (though I live in the South.) I'll never bother with a brooder again. I think they're healthier and grow faster. They certainly seem more adventurous and it feels to me like they love exploring and pecking outdoors even at a few days. Mine would run back under mama if they got cold or whatever, and she'd tuck them up under her and squat. Great fun to watch.