I want to do a breeding project, and I'd like to hatch the eggs with a broody. Is there any special care you have to give chicks if they're hatched outside? Do you have to assist in their drying-off or anything like that?
Not at all. The mother will do all the work. All you have to do is provide a safe shelter for mama and chicks, and make sure they have plenty of food/water at appropriate chick levels so they can eat and drink. I always have mama on ground level so the chicks don't have to navigate any ramps or heights.
One more question: Can you hatch chicks under a broody in wintertime, if I'm going to be raising them indoors as babies?
You can let the broody hatch and raise the chicks during winter. I've had broody hens raise chicks over winter with no problems at all. They did a very good job keeping the little ones warm. Save yourself the hassle of looking after them and let mom do it
