The main laying broodie had 8 eggs under her. When she got off the nest one day (about 2 weeks in), another hen got into the box and refused to let the first mom back. The first mom decided not to fight over the nest, but waited until the 2nd mom or "auntie" left for a bathroom and feed break. Mother bird #1 took the nest back and mother bird #2 took it back again, when mother bird #1 left for bathroom and food. This went on for a week until a little one hatched overnight (actually, 2 hatched) and both somehow got out of the nest Mother bird #2 left the nest to care for the 2 fallen chicks, but one didn't make it as it was quite cold and must have wandered away. Anyhow #1 was thrilled she had her nest back, and ended up hatching 4 lovely chicks. #2 now only had one baby and I decided to buy some day old chicks to give her a larger clutch. (One chick being raised alone, TO ME, is a bust. They can't get away w/ anything and no interaction with other chicks their own age leaves them lacking for social skills.) Anyhow, I got mother #2 3 day old chicks and the chicks screamed all the way home and to the barn. I told mother 2 she had a miracle birthing and she clucked to them and lifted herself to allow them under. They didn't know what a mommy was, but learned fast, as it was warm and safe under her. Seconds later they were all quiet and it's been 3 days now, and everyone is accepted and doing fine so far....crisis averted.
