Unexpected Hidden Chicks

[agingerbrunette]

Hi! So I have 3 hens and one rooster for 4 years now. I’ve always been diligent about pulling eggs until now. Chicks are currently hatching with one out of the egg… my question is what do I do? I know there is probably a ton of information but I’m doing this all on my phone as I still don’t have internet from hurricane Ida.

Mainly do I separate the chicks and mom from everyone else?

I’m going to comb through the threads the best I can via cell phone but any information is helpful.

thanks in advance!!

 

[ForTheLoveOfSilkies]

Hi! So I have 3 hens and one rooster for 4 years now. I’ve always been diligent about pulling eggs until now. Chicks are currently hatching with one out of the egg… my question is what do I do? I know there is probably a ton of information but I’m doing this all on my phone as I still don’t have internet from hurricane Ida.

Mainly do I separate the chicks and mom from everyone else?

I’m going to comb through the threads the best I can via cell phone but any information is helpful.

thanks in advance!!

Congrats on your new additions! Any pics!?
Obviously broody mumma is taking care of chicks? What is your setup? Food and water accessable to mum and chicks? - chick starter feed?
You don't need to separate mum and chicks if the other flock members keep their distance and don't try to attack the chicks - which is not likely they'll go near her as broody mummas are very protective!

 

[agingerbrunette]

Congrats on your new additions! Any pics!?
Obviously broody mumma is taking care of chicks? What is your setup? Food and water accessable to mum and chicks? - chick starter feed?
You don't need to separate mum and chicks if the other flock members keep their distance and don't try to attack the chicks - which is not likely they'll go near her as broody mummas are very protective!

My regular setup is the garden coop so the henhouse is accessible via a ramp and mama and babies are in the nesting box.
I’m wondering if I shouldn’t move them down so the chicks don’t potentially fall down then ramp?
Is the rooster a potential problem?
Im sorry I was not prepared for this but would like to do right.

 

[ForTheLoveOfSilkies]

My regular setup is the garden coop so the henhouse is accessible via a ramp and mama and babies are in the nesting box.
I’m wondering if I shouldn’t move them down so the chicks don’t potentially fall down then ramp?
Is the rooster a potential problem?
Im sorry I was not prepared for this but would like to do right.

You could move them down after all is hatched, if it is safe and secure spot from predators and weather, and easily accessible to food and water.
Rooster shouldn't be a problem at all, I've never had a problem with roosters attacking their offspring. If your nervous then could you section off an area for mum and chicks? Or just keep watch and be prepared to section off an area if you think he's a problem?

 

[agingerbrunette]

I don’t think he’s a problem he’s a friendly guy.

I’ve built a barrier around their hen house ramp hoping to avoid chick tumbles until everyone is born. I’m hoping it’s low enough for the rest of the flock to get in and out and high enough to prevent chicks from falling.

I’ve also placed food and water near them.

Is there an expected time for the chicks to hatch?

 

[Sahraschweiss]

My regular setup is the garden coop so the henhouse is accessible via a ramp and mama and babies are in the nesting box.
I’m wondering if I shouldn’t move them down so the chicks don’t potentially fall down then ramp?
Is the rooster a potential problem?
Im sorry I was not prepared for this but would like to do right.

I wouldn't worry about the ramp. Mine is 4ft from the ground and zig zags down. They are pretty smart.

 

[agingerbrunette]

Thanks to everyone for the help. So far one baby and one chick that didn’t make it. I removed the one that passed and am just checking every now and again to see if any more hatched.

 

[agingerbrunette]

Just a quick update. Mama is being very good and does not want anyone near her babies. I believe we have 3.

 

[agingerbrunette]

Before starting a new thread I’m going to try here. She successfully hatched 6 eggs, however, she abandoned a few and yesterday one pipped even though she decided 6 was enough. I removed the egg, made a makeshift incubator and now have another chick.

My question is can I sneak this chick in or since it’s been 2.5-3 days will she see this new chick as a threat?

The new chick fully hatched about 4 hours ago… I’m not sure if his little legs/feet have something going on or if he’s just too young to know at this point.

 

[Weeg]

Before starting a new thread I’m going to try here. She successfully hatched 6 eggs, however, she abandoned a few and yesterday one pipped even though she decided 6 was enough. I removed the egg, made a makeshift incubator and now have another chick.

My question is can I sneak this chick in or since it’s been 2.5-3 days will she see this new chick as a threat?

The new chick fully hatched about 4 hours ago… I’m not sure if his little legs/feet have something going on or if he’s just too young to know at this point.

Chicks are exhausted after hatching, I'de give it a couple more hours or at least until he's dried out and fluffy. That usually takes 24 hours. He should have his bearings by then and be able to walk around.
Congrats on your baby! That is really incredible! As long as this chick is healthy and mobile, you should be able to slip him/her under her at night while she's a sleep with no problems.
Good luck! We love picture btw!