putting more chicks under broody hen with current chicks

[lisafromvermont]

i have 2 broody hens whose chicks just started hatching. i have more incubating but they're 3 days behind. was thinking to just add the chicks to their nests once the incubator chicks hatch so they can be raised naturally. they are only sitting on 2-4 eggs each; should i add some extra 'dud' eggs now so they thing there are still more to hatch? or will they be fine waking up with 12 more chicks each under each of them even though there were no more eggs left?

 

[Gorman Farm]

Three days might not make a difference, but I wouldn't risk it if it is more than 3 days. I would stick em under momma hen after they dry in the evening. By morning all should be well. I don't think the dud eggs are necessary.