My BA hen has been a dedicated broody, setting on her 4 eggs since April 01. Yesterday afternoon, I noticed "Chika-hen" was more rigid, sitting much more defensively on her nest than usual. I offered her some bits of ham & raw oatmeal,(fave meal) she ate quickly, then drank some water. She seemed uncomfortable, then she stood up and a tiny black chick was tucked under her wing!
Three more eggs, guess she's determined to wait for her babies. She won't leave her nest, not even inside her private coop. Whic I have completely secured from al other chickens and critters. I am her only visitor, I serve her meals.
How soon, after the new chicks hatch can I safely handle them?
