New baby! Now what to do?

[lauren212]

First chick of 2 hatched. This is my first time. So excited. I have 4 other hens. Three days ago I separated my broody and her eggs from the others since there was an accidental egg break. Now that they are hatched some people keep them separated with mom and some put them back in the coop with the rest of the flock . Any advice. This hen was getting picked on a bit by the others when she would come out during the day while being broody. Can she defend her babies if I put them back after a week?

 

[oldhenlikesdogs]

I generally keep them separated for a week or two. The chicks need time to build strength so they can keep up with mom and get away from other birds.

Sometimes broody hens go back easily and sometimes other hens want to fight with them, so supervision when you let them back is always a good thing.

 

[21hens-incharge]

All you can do is try. If you keep a close watch and are ready to intervene it is worth a try.

Is she where the others can see her?
It gives them a chance to get used to her with chicks.