- Nov 30, 2009
- 10
- 0
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Hi everybody,
We have a chicken that created a brood in the woods near our house, and the chicks started hatching early this morning. We put a small run over her to protect her, and there's shade and protection from the sun. She's been there for three weeks, and we're worried that the nest is not clean enough for them. There's been a foul smell about the nest for a week or so, but it's mild. It's not a death smell, but probably poo or just rotting vegetation. In any case, I don't think it's good. She bites if I get close, and I haven't been able to inspect the nest, or check the chicks out.
I have several questions.
Can I disturb the nest now, and somehow move the eggs and chicks and hen to a cleaner spot? Is this necessary? If I move the remaining eggs, will she continue her brood in the new location? I've read that they're quite prone to fungal infections, and I'd rather put them somewhere new...
Is there anything else I need to do? Will mama take care of them on her own? I've provided water and food.
Thanks, and please write back soon.
We have a chicken that created a brood in the woods near our house, and the chicks started hatching early this morning. We put a small run over her to protect her, and there's shade and protection from the sun. She's been there for three weeks, and we're worried that the nest is not clean enough for them. There's been a foul smell about the nest for a week or so, but it's mild. It's not a death smell, but probably poo or just rotting vegetation. In any case, I don't think it's good. She bites if I get close, and I haven't been able to inspect the nest, or check the chicks out.
I have several questions.
Can I disturb the nest now, and somehow move the eggs and chicks and hen to a cleaner spot? Is this necessary? If I move the remaining eggs, will she continue her brood in the new location? I've read that they're quite prone to fungal infections, and I'd rather put them somewhere new...
Is there anything else I need to do? Will mama take care of them on her own? I've provided water and food.
Thanks, and please write back soon.
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