Two broody hens and one dead chick

[Kimquat]

My eggs are hatching and I went out to check on things to find one little chick off to the side, not beneath either of the hens. I tried to place the chick beneath one of the hens and she pecked me and the chick and I'm sure she killed it.

I don't know what to do and I feel as though I caused this little baby to die.

What should I do?

 

[Poetical Peeps]

Maybe leave all your eggs to the hen who hasn't shown an interest in pecking, if you can?

Do you have a brooder set-up ready in case the rest of your chicks need to be rescued?

I don't know... but I feel for ya.

 

[Kimquat]

Yes, I pulled her out of the brooding box and left the hen who has consistently been the most dedicated. Since removing the other, the remaining broody has settled all of the eggs beneath her and I'm just hoping that tonight will bring an uneventful, safe hatch for the remaining chicks.

We tried to save the injured one, but to no avail. I think the injuries were too extensive. I feel bad to have to remove the other broody because she's clearly stressed to be removed from the nest, but I don't want to take any chances. I have six eggs left who may make it just fine.

Perhaps I should peek in on them later tonight to make sure the remaining broody is doing her job?

 

[Poetical Peeps]

I'm late returning to this and, having never hatched under a broody, did not have much to offer, but wanted to check back and see how it went for you. Hope you have some healthy little fuzzybutts.

I think I got more sleep while I was undergoing labor induction for my last babe than I did when my first egg hatch was underway.

 

[Kimquat]

Ahaha, I think you might be right. I was much more comfortable and emotionally stable going into labor than I was dealing with this hatch. We actually did get some fuzzballs - I posted some pics in another thread. We wound up with four healthy little babies and mama hen seems to be doing a good job with them. Thanks for checking on us!