Mama is hatching first chicks...many questions!

[zylechicks]

We were given some fertilized eggs by a friend so that we could place them beneath a very broody hen. Today is the day -- 2 of the 5 eggs are cracking open! Last week we tried to relocate the hen to a private nest box away from other hens. She freaked out and quickly returned to the chosen box, even though the eggs had been relocated as well. We put them back and now have to wonder how me move her once they emerge, as the box is high off the ground and not a safe place for them once they start exploring. We are intending to let the eggs finish hatching and then immediately relocate her to a nest box in protected area, where we have a heat lamp, food, water, etc. Can we expect her to relocate and still care for the chicks? Also, weather here is chilly, around 30 degrees. If we move her and she doesn't accept the move, chicks will get cold quickly. Has anyone ever moved a hen after the eggs have hatched? We feel like we need a backup plan if she either refuses to accept moving, or rejects the chicks. Most of the comments in this forum are from people who use incubators. would love to hear from someone who has experience with broody hens and their behaviors once chicks hatch! Thanks!

 

[dacjohns]

Is there any way you can put the nest box at ground level? That's what I did and moved them to a different section of the coop until they were old enough to be integrated with the rest of the flock.

 

[zylechicks]

Unfortunately, no. The nest box is part of a set and she chose the middle box. We actually tried to move her when we first got the eggs but she is a stubborn thing and would have no part of that. Got really flustered and upset so we let her be. I am guessing we will just have to force the move and hope she re-nests, and be ready to incubate if she doesn't. Would be a shame to do that though, because she has been broody forever and she is about to finally get her wish!

 

[dacjohns]

Try to block the front of the box so the chicks can't get out. After the hatch is complete then move mom and all to where you want and provide them with good living quarters.

 

[zylechicks]

We did put a board up this morning, so the chicks can't get out for now. I guess after that, it's just move and hope she understands this is good for her and for her new kids.