How many chicks can a hen hatch?

[Hamburg Haven]

I recently had a Hamburg & banty cross hen hatch 20 chicks. There were 3 eggs that didn't hatch left in the nest. I know that is unusual and I wondered if anyone else has had that many chicks hatch at once. Quite frankly I was shocked when she reappeared (she had hidden her nest in a hay stall in my horse barn) and stood up and it was like a chick explosion as they ran out from under her. At first I thought she had 18 but there are 20! They are a few weeks old now and from more than one rooster as we have several (some with single combs and others with flat combs). I will have most of them to rehome (especially the roos) if anyone is interested! They will be a predator-resistant, lighter weight chicken that lays many eggs for many years thanks to the Hamburg genetics.

 

[ronott1]

That is a lot of chicks!

 

[BlueBaby]

Hello, and welcome to BYC!

 

[Pork Pie]

Hi and welcome to BYC. That hen is going to regret sitting on so many eggs, for sure

 

[NonnasBabies]

Welcome

 

[Lazy Farmer]

Almost 2 dz.. .. incredible

 

[Hen Pen Jem]

Greetings Hamburg Haven, Welcome to BYC!
There's nothing like a Summer hatchlings! LOL!

 

[Fancychooklady]

The most I’ve had hatch under a bantam was 14.

 

[Hen Pen Jem]

I recently had a Hamburg & banty cross hen hatch 20 chicks. There were 3 eggs that didn't hatch left in the nest. I know that is unusual and I wondered if anyone else has had that many chicks hatch at once. Quite frankly I was shocked when she reappeared (she had hidden her nest in a hay stall in my horse barn) and stood up and it was like a chick explosion as they ran out from under her. At first I thought she had 18 but there are 20! They are a few weeks old now and from more than one rooster as we have several (some with single combs and others with flat combs). I will have most of them to rehome (especially the roos) if anyone is interested! They will be a predator-resistant, lighter weight chicken that lays many eggs for many years thanks to the Hamburg genetics.

I unzipped your picture, and here it is! So darling!

 

[lazy gardener]

Too much cute for one photo.