One chick

[MamaKoop]

We let our broody hen do her thing and let her keep 6 eggs. Only one hatched (on July 3). My understanding is we can’t introduce one chicken into the flock. Thought about buying other chicks, but hate to take baby from mama to raise with other chicks. How many would we need any way? What should we do?

 

[janiedoe]

Welcome. You don't have to introduce one chick, let mom do it. Be sure and integrate them into the flock while mom is still protective.
I usually let my mom and chicks out at day 2, but I don't know your flock dynamics. You will need to monitor the flock and head off any aggression. My hens are pretty protective and I've never had one not protect her chicks. You won't know til you try. Good luck!

 

[MamaKoop]

Welcome. You don't have to introduce one chick, let mom do it. Be sure and integrate them into the flock while mom is still protective.
I usually let my mom and chicks out at day 2, but I don't know your flock dynamics. You will need to monitor the flock and head off any aggression. My hens are pretty protective and I've never had one not protect her chicks. You won't know til you try. Good luck!

Thanks, we have a rooster, will he hurt our chick?

 

[sourland]

Are you allowing the mother hen to raise the chick? If so I would gradually introduce them to the flock once the chick is several days old.

 

[janiedoe]

Thanks, we have a rooster, will he hurt our chick?

Generally the roosters just ignore chicks. I've had one that actually called them and tidbitted for them. He was a sweet. I have one that isn't fond of them, but he just gives a swift peck if they get between himself, his hens, and the feed bowl.

 

[sourland]

Hello, again.

Thanks, we have a rooster, will he hurt our chick?

In my experience other hens are more likely to hurt the chick.

 

[Kenneth Zweerink]

Welcome to BackYard Chickens. The Best of Luck with your Flock! And a Big Hello from Eastern Nebraska.

 

[Dr Evy]

Welcome to BYC. We’re so glad you joined!

 

[DobieLover]

Hello and welcome to BYC! Glad you joined.
I've had two roosters that like to come in and help mom feed the chicks after they've hatched.

 

[pennyJo1960]

Welcome to Backyard Chickens. This is a wonderful place to hang out and explore.