PeppersChicks
Chirping
- Jul 29, 2022
- 53
- 77
- 68
I have a hen that went broody about 2-3 weeks ago. I tried breaking her but she was relentless. I wanted to grow my flock so I just decided to do it now since she was so determined. Over the course of the past couple of weeks I tried moving her to a new lower nesting box but she was not having that. She always ends up in the same nesting box she started in. I went to tractor supply and purchased 4 chicks this morning, I know you are supposed to make the switch at night but I did it today so I could keep an eye on her because I wouldn't be able to tonight. She is sitting quietly, the chicks are quiet and all seems well.
These are my concerns:
1. My coop is about 3-4 feet off the ground and I'm concerned the chicks will fall out but she won't move, I tried moving her again this morning with the chicks and she got mad, pooped, ate and walked around for about 10-15 minutes then went back to the original nesting box. When she got settled back in, I put the chicks back under her and she is now content. Should I be worried the chicks will be hurt when she tries to get down?
2. It's been about 3 hours since I have introduced the chicks, she never pecked them and once they were under her she settled in all quiet. How long before I know she has actually accepted them? Should I lift her up and check on them or leave her be?
3. I put water and chick starter close to the nesting box she is in, will she show them food and water?
Sorry for all the questions, this is my first experience with a broody hen and chick introduction.
These are my concerns:
1. My coop is about 3-4 feet off the ground and I'm concerned the chicks will fall out but she won't move, I tried moving her again this morning with the chicks and she got mad, pooped, ate and walked around for about 10-15 minutes then went back to the original nesting box. When she got settled back in, I put the chicks back under her and she is now content. Should I be worried the chicks will be hurt when she tries to get down?
2. It's been about 3 hours since I have introduced the chicks, she never pecked them and once they were under her she settled in all quiet. How long before I know she has actually accepted them? Should I lift her up and check on them or leave her be?
3. I put water and chick starter close to the nesting box she is in, will she show them food and water?
Sorry for all the questions, this is my first experience with a broody hen and chick introduction.