question regarding raising barnyard chicks

[Barn Maid Ann]

I have a hen that stashed a nest up in our hay loft. She is sitting on about 25 eggs (have no clue if they are all viable). We have one chick so far and we moved her to a stall so they would be safe while the rest hatch. Found this baby down a hole between hay bales this morning, peeping like crazy. It is healthy and darling.

I would like to let them range with the other chickens, but don't know if and when this is possible. We have two pretty mellow roosters. so far their only interest in life is mating.
Any one have any experience or advice?

 

[greyhorsewoman]

I've found it's best if you can keep them separated for a week or so ... (I've used a large varikennel) and then just opened it and let mom introduce them as she wants.

 

[Barn Maid Ann]

Quote:
Thanks. Have you experienced any aggression towards the babies, from the other adults?

(We have two chicks, now.)

 

[IggiMom]

The few times that I have had a hen surprise me with a bunch of chicks, I didn't know it until I found her out in the yard, clucking happily, followed by a bunch of little balls of fluff.

So of course I never had a chance to separate them. Lots of luck even CATCHING them at that point.

They always did just fine, and no ever bothered her, certainly not any of the roos.

Of course, my guys do free range, so I think that helps, as they have lots of room to amble about.

Catherine

 

[Beekissed]

I always watch that first reunion carefully and intervene if the hen seems outnumbered. I try a little foray of an evening, right before they all go to roost. Let her and babies out a couple of times like this under supervision and see if she can hold her own, see if the babies are sticking by her side, etc.

And, yes, wait about a week or two until the chicks are fleet of foot and can run back to mama.

I've never had any incidents using this method, but the flock will try to examine the chicks and proceed to get in a ruckus with the mom if they get too close. At first. Then they all go about their business like usual.

Mine are free ranged, so they can't really corner the little family or anything, so this may make a difference.

 

[IggiMom]

Hey Beekissed, I see you are in WV, like me!

Hi!

Catherine (Iggi Mom)

 

[briakreager]

Hi there! do you have any idea on how to raise that kind of
breed chickens? I want to have some
business similarly with this but I need more tips on how to start..

please have some piece of advice!

 

[Beekissed]

Quote:
Hi, Iggi!!

Yes, a few hillbillies on these here forums!