Question About Post-Hatching?

[hiddenflock]

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?

 

[aoxa]

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.

 

[hiddenflock]

Thanks, Aoxa!!

 

[hiddenflock]

One more question: Can you hatch chicks under a broody in wintertime, if I'm going to be raising them indoors as babies?

 

[sumi]

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