putting other chicks under the broody if hers don't all hatch?

[marshmallowpeeps]

Hi
I have my first broody hen ever. She has been sitting on a dozen eggs and I think it's about time for something to happen. Just curious though, if the hatching rate doesn't turn out so well, I was thinking about grabbing a few chicks from TSC and slipping them under her once I am sure that no more will hatch. Would that work/ be a good idea? She's a BO if that matters. And how many chicks can a hen reasonably raise?

Thanks!

 

[babsbag]

I have seen on BYC where people do it all the time. They usually do it at night. I have a little bantie that is taking care of 9 chicks and she is doing a great job. I would think that a standard size bird could do at least a dozen. Nice even number.