Need some fast advice Please!

[Sorin]

I have a Bantam Cochin Hen that is broody and I will be introducing 4 baby chicks to her today. The chicks will be here in an hour or so, I thought I had everything covered when it occurred to me I have one question. Should I feed and water the babies before I put them under her? They will be 2 days old when they arrive by mail today and I know mother hens usually won't get off the nest usually for the first day after they hatch, I don't want them to go that long without food and water but I also don't want them to imprint on me. Any suggestions? I do have a brooder set up in case this doesn't work out. Thanks!

 

[Sorin]

Expecting the call in a half hour, I've searched the old threads and I can't find anything on this

I can't believe I didn't thinkof the is before

 

[they'reHISchickens]

Have water and food handy in front of Mom. Mom will leave the nest when the lil ones start wandering and she will teach them what to do.
Best to add them at night when all are quiet and sleepy so no one knows what is happening.

 

[they'reHISchickens]

Be careful if you are introducing them while everyone is awake. She may attack them. Take is slow and easy slipping them under her one at a time and judge her reactions.

 

[Sorin]

Thanks! I wanted to do it at night, just not sure if the chicks will accept a momma after being in a brooder all day, what do you think?

 

[Sorin]

Quote:
Yes, I was going to let her hear the peeping from nearby for an hour or so then judge her reaction.

Oops, I didn't mean to quote myself