injured newly hatched chick...

[limsan]

I am just beside myself. I just happened to go into the room(solarium)where I have been keeping 2 mother hens. One has one chick. She is very fierce and protective as are many first time mums. However I didn't think she was a murderer. When I entered the room I saw her dragging around the other hens newly hatched chick. The poor mum was watching this but seemed unable to do anything to protect her chick. I quickly grabbed it away from her and shooed the bad hen away. I then placed the chick with her mum. She immediately started to clean up her chick. When i returned to check the chick I noticed it had sustained 2 fairly good cuts from the other hen upon her little head. I placed the chick on a soft flannel pillow case to try and keep her warm and returned it to her mum. I fear she isn't going to live. Is there anything I can do? Please,someone tell me what to do.

 

[Cynthia12]

Oh I'm so sorry! Maybe you could put her in a brooding place with a real warm light? The chick needs to stay warm. I fear that putting her back in that same area may be a wrong idea...not sure how even the mom might react?

Good luck..let us know.
Cynthia

 

[silkiechick05]

You definitely need to separate the hens immediately. Blood will make them want to attack the chick even more.

 

[limsan]

Hello everyone: Just wanted to let those who are interested: the chick I wrote in about-injured by another hen at birth- unfortunately, died. However, her mother had 3 more healthy chicks and we are happy for her about that.
Thank you everyone who responded to my plea as I really rely on all of you out there for help and support. I feel we are kindred spirits-at least in our love of chickens and other animals! Thank you!