Introducing Chicks To Broody.

[The Happster]

I have got myself into a bit of a situation here.
So 18 days ago....my hen went broody.
I allowed her three eggs. Two were infertile. One is now on day 17/18

I didn't want her to only have one chick.
I looked around for some day olds I could buy, and found some. I bought two. All good.
I had hoped of sneaking them under my broody after the other chick hatches. They are now about 3-4 days old.
Will it work? I really couldn't take it if she hurt or killed one. They follow me around and come when I tap the floor. Does that mean they are imprinted on me, and will that stop them accepting the hen/the hen accepting them?
By the time the chick hatches they will be just over 1 week old.
If it does work, what would be the best way to do this?
Help appreciated.

 

[oldhenlikesdogs]

She more than likely will peck them in the head. You can try, but I would be very cautious. Hens can kill chicks.

 

[oldhenlikesdogs]

I personally wouldn't try giving them to the hen. They will be too old.

 

[50-45-1]

Day old chicks are best for this process. Would have been better to wait for the one egg to hatch before buying chicks to add.

 

[The Happster]

Ok. I might show her them with wire in between to see how she acts. They're really sweet chicks. Thanks for your help.

 

[oldhenlikesdogs]

Good luck.

 

[The Happster]

Ahhh I had thought that.
Is it worth trying? Or will she hurt them?