How many chicks can I give a silkie surrogate?

[hirschykiss]

My chick order of 6 chicks came today. I also have 8 eggs, 6 of which I think are growing, are due to hatch Thurs. by my broody silkie.

Could I give my silkie the 6 chicks also? If I can when would the best time to do it. I don't want her to leave her eggs but I don't want the chicks to be to old either. I'm hoping it will work out. Thanks!

 

[chicky_mommy]

Because chickens are birds, and tending their young doesn't put any physical drain on thier bodies, you would be able to give her the 6chicks in addition to what she hatches, HOWEVER she might not accept all of them or even any of them. Your best bet would be to give her the chicks the night after her eggs hatch.