New Houdan cross hatch

[irf1983]

One of my cochins just hatched 7 Houdan crosses. Some are with easter eggers, a leghorn, and who knows what else. Haven't got a great look yet, but some have 4 toes on one foot and five on the other.

This is my first hatch. I dont want to leave the chicks with the hen for too long, how many days should I leave them in?

I have one more broody set to hatch next week.

 

[CoopCrazy]

You can remove them from momma as soon as they are dry..

 

[zatsdeb]

you could also let her raise them if you have a private area for her so the other birds wouldnt peck at them. it is pretty to watch them all run and scamper under her wings.

 

[goldnchocolate]

I have a hen who is raising 3 chicks, right now. I love watching them follow her around and seeing her teach them about finding bugs, etc. I free range mine so it's not a problem for her to have them among the other chickens. If they were penned up I wouldn't allow them in with the others for fear that the other hens would try to kill the chicks. Do you have to take them away from her?

 

[irf1983]

No I don't have to. Here are my issues. I have the hen and chicks in a separate run right now, but there is another broody in with them that is due to hatch next weekend. Do the hens get territorial over their flocks. I don't want the hens pecking at each others chicks, I also have 9 store bought chicks that I need to put in that run. Will the hens accept other chicks?

I normally free range my hens put a fox got three last week so I am keeping them locked up until i get rid of fox.

On a totally separate note, does anyone know if shaved pine is ok to put down in a run?

Thanks!