Question

[sgreene390]

Hello!
Next week I’m getting three new baby chicks as an addition to our flock of 6. I’ve raised babies before so that won’t be a problem, but had a question about introducing them to the flock. I’ve read that broody chickens will sometimes accept chicks if done properly, and we have an extremely broody hen that I think would love to have some surrogate babies. Is it worth trying to introduce her to the babies and any tips on making the introduction go smoothly? Also, if I did have her be a surrogate, do the babies still need a heat lamp/need to be kept inside, or are they okay to be outside during the warmer days with the hen (separate from the flock). Any tips would be helpful, just trying to decide whether to raise them the traditional way or try something new! Thanks!

 

[Egg Snatcher]

I put chicks from Orahelans and Atwoods under my hens and they loved them. Put the chicks under the hen were ever she is setting and leave her alone so she knows these are her babies. They will not need a heat lamp and should be fine to stay with the hen outside. When the hen knows the chicks are hers you can move them to a brooder or a cage. You will want to check on them to ale sure the chicks didn't get out of the nest. Hope this is good info.

 

[Fluffandfeathers]

I've just popped a lone chick from a hatch under my broody old pekin bantam this morning and they are very settled together. So much better than him hiding in my sons hood all night long .

I'm keeping them in for a few days to be sure but once they are definitely ok I'll pop them out in the brooder box outside and see how it goes.