This is new to me - "auntie" hen wants to help mother the chicks.

[bawkbawkbawk]

I have an EE who has been a very undistinguished member of the flock. So much so, in fact, that when she went broody in January (January????) I said nope nope nope. Not only was it an off time of year, but this hen tends to be bullied and I didn't think she could defend chicks against our mean RIR.

I gave two chicks to our experienced broody BO in July and lo and behold, the EE is now also mothering them. She has attached herself to the chicks and mother hen and is behaving like an "auntie". The BO (who raised this EE) does not seem to mind.
https://polloplayer.wordpress.com/2019/08/31/two-hens-are-better-than-one/

Is this common? If she goes broody again should I trust her this time?

 

[oldhenlikesdogs]

I've had this happen a time or two with my bantam hens. It's adorable to see. It does generally mean the hen will make a good mother herself.

 

[chickens really]

Yes..It does happen. Very cute when another Hen helps raise the Chicks..