New momma and her baby chicks

[vwhite]

Okay our momma hen (Gracie) just hatched 4 baby chicks, it's been 7 days). I had them in a dog crate in the coop so she could care for them and not worry about leaving her last 2 eggs. Today I decided it was time to let them out. Can I go ahead and just let them be? OR do I have to continue to put them in the dog crate so they are safe from the other chickens?

I let one hen in there (Rosie) and she went into the dog crate to check it out, well Gracie wasn't having that, she went in after her and sent her packing really quick. =) I know she will protect her babies but I guess I am just worried that there are TOO many chickens for her to watch out for. We have 22 all together and now Gracie's 4 babies.

Please let me know your thoughts. As this is my first time letting the hen raise her babies.

Thanks so much!

Veronica

 

[sourland]

If Gracie is relatively high in the pecking order and your birds have ample space, she should be able to protect her chicks.

 

[vwhite]

She is definitely one of the dominant females of the group.

One of the other hens came over (Ginger) and decided to take her on. They went at oit for a few seconds and I grabbed Ginger and let Grace peck her once and then Ginger took off. I am worried she will get into fights without me. =(

 

[sourland]

Initially you may want to arbitrate the reintroductions. I'd do so until everyone knows not to mess with mama.