Too many chicks for one mother?

[SilkieCanada]

Ive got about 14 chicks which are a couple weeks old and they are all hiding under their mother at night. I found a dead one this morning. Do you think its possible there are too many under her and they are getting squished?

 

[1livelychick]

My hen had 14 chicks and they all did great. Sure the chick was dehydrated or weak to begin with and passed? Could be the temps, too.
I had the same hen another time that kept squishing her chicks and it was a snake that was trying to get to them....not trying to scare you...just could be many scenarios. maybe someone else will chime in with some other ideas. Good luck with the rest!

 

[froggiesheins]

Having a multiutde of chicks "the natural way" is just mother Natures way to ensure some will survive. It is just survival of the fittest. Althought to us humans it bites sometimes....