I did it.. I cant believe it!!

[sheilawagner]

DMSrabbit,

I think its great that you're putting some thought into the process, whether it was better to take her out of her comfort zone, cover her with a towel, experiment by putting the chicks under her, etc. I think its wonderful. Life is all about learning, trial and error, and I'm doing the same thing as you, I'm learning as I go along. Sometimes, it just takes a bit of common sense, just thinking a little bit in their shoes, and then thinking like a chicken, and just try it and see.

I think its really good.

Have you thought if it might be a good idea for you to allow momma silkie to rest a bit in between being broody? It might be better for her health if she gets to exercise and walk about in the fresh air and do what chickens do. Its just a suggestion because I think you would know what is best considering you know how long she stays on the nest, how often she gets to eat, how long she's been broody etc. I guess what I'm saying is, I hope she still has a great quality of life despite being such a good momma to so many adopted chicks.

Congrats on your love of poultry and learning by trial and error. I'm enjoying every bit of it myself.

 

[DMSrabbit]

Quote:
Yes. I have considered her health. I have actually transferred her again from the 7 i had under her earlier last night and this morning to the 4 chicks that were struggling the most. I call this my ICU unit.. I had alot of problems with shrink-wrapping and chicks with deformities, so i figured if anyone would be able to give them a chance at life, she would. So far she has been on the 4 ICU babies for about 8 hours, and they seem to be doing fine under her.. I dont know how this will turn out, but either way this is the last time i will let her grow out babies until her re-clutches her own eggs this spring..