moderately broody hen & incubator chicks???

[Livinwright Farm]

Is there any way to introduce brand new chicks under a hen showing signs of broodiness? Woudl she hurt them or protect them? Just curious as to whether we should try tricking her or not.

 

[Judy]

You won't know til you try. Best bet is wait til she's been broody for about two weeks then slip the chicks under her at hight. The chicks should not be more than 2 or 3 days old when you do this.

Some hens mother them fine, some attack and even kill them.

 

[kano]

Quote:
Don't do that. You have to have the hen broody for at least, 12 to 15 days.