Should I take newly hatched chicks away from mother hen?

[OlMcDeeDeehadafarmEIEIO]

I have a Polish mama hen thats very broody and hatched 9 chicks a few days ago....everyday, one dies and I have no idea why.....I'm down to 6 now. I had put her and them in a giant long tote in the hen house so they'd be separate from the other silkies.....I took the tote out and brought the babies in the house but I'm wondering if I should return them to her without being in the tote.....is it safe for them?

 

[TimCline]

If it were me I would raise them myself. But that's just personal preference. I'll let a broody hatch them then I take them, that way there are fewer losses. But you can do as you please

 

[OlMcDeeDeehadafarmEIEIO]

Ahhh ok, I've never dont it naturally so I didnt know...I have them in the house and they're safe now.....thanks

 

[TimCline]

Some people let the hens raise them but I don't trust em lol

 

[donrae]

I always let my broody hens raise the babies in the flock. I very rarely have losses. We need more info, though, to help you.

What were the conditions in the tote?

What were you feeding them? What was the water source? Temperature?

What happened to the babies that died?

 

[JanetMarie]

My broody hens have had very good success raising their chicks. Never in a tote! They have been allowed to be with the rest of the flock free ranging without problems.