I am watching movements of a hen with a brood of 17 chicks. She is part of a free-ranging group including 2 more hens and harem master (cock). All are American games. Subject hen has house in core of her range which is much smaller than the entire flocks foraging range. Day of hatch (Day 0) she did not move from nest site (star). Each following day she was observed further from nest site during day but always returns to nest site each night. The day brooding sites (X's) are always near some structure / cover. Day brooding sites also have good view of landscape even though hen with chicks is hard to see. Foraging of hen and chicks is not in a straight line between brooding sites and often involves zigzagging as group consumes insects as they go. They are also being provided chick grower ration to excess on driveway but still consume at least as much insect fare. Key observation is that foraging area of group is increasing over time. At this time there is minimal interaction with harem master unless hen is alarmed, then harem master quickly approaches. Otherwise harem master is with other hens.
