mom and babies back to coop

[kelidei]

Hi Folks.... I have a silkie pullet that hatched 4 chicks. She is beginning to act restless and I am thinking it is time for her to go back to the bantie coop with her friends... what about the babies? They are pretty much feathered out, they do not spend much time under her anymore. Can I bring them all back to the coop or should I wait with the babies.. they are probably 5 weeks old or close to it... Thanks!

 

[kelidei]

Quote:
Anyone?

 

[MEchickenfarmer33]

mama should protect them fine. there can be some casualties in between mama and the other hens. so keep a watchful eye on them within the first few days. make sure that the chicks arent getting beat up too much

 

[kelidei]

Quote:
Thank you so much... I appreciate your response... will do!

 

[JadeMurphy]

I didn't take mine out at all. We only have two hens and one cockerel so its a pretty small tight flock.

Our cockerel now seems to patrol the coop, almost to defend mama and chicks, and the other hen carries on her own business.

I guess we were lucky, but maybe you should try it?

 

[kelidei]

Just wanted to say mom and babies are doing great! She is a very good mom!

 

[GardeNerd]

I am glad to hear they are all doing fine. I have one hen that intergrates chicks into the flock just fine, but she is my top hen. My lowest ranking hen, on the other hand, gets pecked on and so does her chicks. I keep her separated until I find homes for her chicks, and then she moves back on her own.