Putting chicks under broody?

[chickiedoodle]

I have several broody hens and am letting some of them hatch out eggs--but I have also been offered some chicks that a friend is hatching in her bator. One of my hens has been sitting for a MONTH on fake eggs, and I was wondering what would happen if I took the day old chicks (they hatch friday) and stick them under Ms. Broody Friday night after "lights out." Any thoughts?

 

[austinhart123]

it would work, but why not just put the eggs that are due this friday under her now.
but either way it should work

 

[ArizonaNessa]

I am sure there are alot of people here that have different opinions than mine but it has been my experience that if you place the chicks under her before they are a week old then all will go well. If they are older than a week old then the momma will take the chicks but the chicks won't follow her as well.

 

[austinhart123]

i have some broodies that will get so excited at the site of a chick and pace in a circle and call to it if im holding it, and some that are the best when it comes to sitting on eggs but tear the chicks apart as soon as the eggs pip.

it all depends on the hen, but i would definantly try putting the babies under her at night, but keep a close eye in her

 

[Whirlwind]

I have done this 2 times with 2 different hens and had no problems. Got the chicks from Atwoods. Wear gloves as she will

probably peck hard. I did this about 2 hrs after bed time. By morning they were a happy family. Be prepared for her to

reject them just in case. Let us know what happens.

 

[chickiedoodle]

Okay guys thanks. I will give it a try. I had thought about getting the eggs now, but transport will take awhile and I don't want anything to happen to them and have them not hatch.

I will let you know how it goes.