the hens attack the chicks!

[donkeyhat]

when ever one of my hens eggs hatched she pecks at them. i always find them missing eyes and with cuts on their head.

the eggs were left alone while the hens sat on them, but once they hatch the mother wont let the chick sit under her and she attaks them if they come to close.

i dont know why they are doing this, can anyone help, please?

 

[Nemo]

How old are your hens, and what breed?

Most suggest not to let a pullet hatch eggs, and some breeds aren't good mothers.

 

[donkeyhat]

i am not sure exactly, but i know the hens aren't very old. and they are belgian mille fleur chickens.

 

[Ridgerunner]

Sounds like a first time broody that is confused and does not know what is going on. I'd suggest raising them in a brooder and don't let this specific hen hatch anymore eggs. Some hens just don't make good mothers, regardless of the breed.