What chick age best to put under broody?

[jsayles86]

I have 2-day old chicks. I would like to put them under my broody for her to raise. This will be her first opportunity to raise chicks and my first time attempting this. What chick age is ideal for bonding with a hen? I would like to wait for a few days till the night temps are above 50F. Any advice would be appreciated.

 

[Percheron chick]

I gave my Cochin 5 day old chicks before with no problem. Don't worry about the weather. It snowed 2 days later. The chicks would emerge long enough to eat then they would dive back under her.

 

[song of joy]

It really depends on the broody. Some remember the ancient lore of hatching and brooding chicks, and some don't.

It's best if she's been broody for at least 2 weeks. The chicks should be no older than 1-2 days. If she doesn't accept them, be prepared to brood them yourself.

Best of luck to you!

 

[jsayles86]

I gave my Cochin 5 day old chicks before with no problem. Don't worry about the weather. It snowed 2 days later. The chicks would emerge long enough to eat then they would dive back under her.

Thanks for the information. Wish me luck!

 

[jsayles86]

It really depends on the broody. Some remember the ancient lore of hatching and brooding chicks, and some don't.

It's best if she's been broody for at least 2 weeks. The chicks should be no older than 1-2 days. If she doesn't accept them, be prepared to brood them yourself.

Best of luck to you!

She has been broody for 2 weeks. I hope she remembers the "ancient lore"
Thanks for the advice.

 

[kathie grey]

I put 23 6 day old chicks with 2 broody hens. One hen is experienced...this is her 3rd year raising babies. The other is a new momma! They were a little overwhelmed at first but now They are in their glory. I was afraid they weren't as protective as I would have hoped...until yesterday when a baby strayed from the box. Both mothers were right on top of the wee one .

They can really surprise us sometimes with how wonderful they are...I feel so lucky they accepted such a big brood!

 

[jsayles86]

I put 23 6 day old chicks with 2 broody hens. One hen is experienced...this is her 3rd year raising babies. The other is a new momma! They were a little overwhelmed at first but now They are in their glory. I was afraid they weren't as protective as I would have hoped...until yesterday when a baby strayed from the box. Both mothers were right on top of the wee one

.

They can really surprise us sometimes with how wonderful they are...I feel so lucky they accepted such a big brood!

That is impressive. Thanks for the information.