Surprise hatch

[downinthecanyon]

Hey, guys, one of my chickens, who has refused to go into the coop at night for several weeks, just turned up with 15 baby chicks today. Should I try to corral them or should I just let her be?

 

[theoldchick]

I'd hate for them to get eaten by a predator.

 

[downinthecanyon]

Exactly! And we have red tailed hawks that would like nothing more than to snatch the little guys off the ground. I just don't know what to do.

 

[birdlover]

I second the old chicken! Can you post some pictures? That's gotta be something to see! FIFTEEN of the little fuzzbutts! Good job, mama hen!

 

[downinthecanyon]

They are the cutest things ever. I couldn't believe it when I went down this morning to feed the flock and there Momma Hen is with her 15 (!!!) little ones, trying to attack my black lab for getting too close to them. Pics are a great idea -- I'll go try to do that while there is still light.

 

[gryeyes]

And yes, corral 'em and give her secure space, food and water!

 

[LizGled628]

Quote:
But most importantly, take some pictures for us!!!

 

[KatieV]

Wow! That's exciting - I can't wait to see pics!

 

[Wegs813]

Oh my!! Congratulations!! And I would love to see pictures!

 

[theoldchick]

As night falls you should follow her and see where she's taking her young. Once the darkness is complete snatch them young'uns and be ready to fend off the hen. She sounds like a superb mother!