Hi everyone - My buff orphington was sitting on 10 eggs, and low and behold, one hatched today! I moved her to a cage by herself, but I need some advice. Should I let her take care of the chicks, or take the chicks to a brooder? If I let her take care of them, do I need to put chick starter in the box with her ( I already have a chick-safe waterer)? Will I need a brooder light or will she be warm enough for the chicks? I'm really new at this, so any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks- Mary
Just make sure momma hen has food and water low enough that she can show the chicks to eat it. Beyond that, she should take care of the rest no problem.
Relax and enjoy watching the hen and chicks. You must remember, hens were taking care of chicks LONG before we had incubators. She will know just what to do. Keep food and water available, they will find it.