Purchase chicks to put under a broody hen???

[tuffy]

I desperatly want some new chicks. My Broody hen sat for 26 days on her eggs, not one hatched. I guess my roo was more talk than action! The hen still wants to set. Can I trick her and put new born baby chicks (purchased) under her at night and hope she will think they are her own? I know the chicks don't need a Mom but I feel better with a Mom taking care of them. Thanks

 

[KellyHM]

Most broodies that have been sitting that long will accept chicks if you stuff them under there at night and remove the eggs. Just make sure you keep an eye on her when she wakes up to make sure she really does accept them.

 

[brimag]

If the chicks are already a couple of days old, they may have already imprinted on themselves. In this case they may not accept the hen.

Brian

 

[basicliving]

If you are anywhere near Shenandoah Valley, VA - I have broodies on 13 eggs due to hatch around Monday. I would be happy to donate two or three.