What do chicks eat that are with the hen in the coup?

[gracimom]

I had one of my hens go broody, She hatched 5 chicks yesterday in the coup. What will the chicks eat and drink? I see them peck at the hen, like there are looking for food. I haven't had chickens very long, so this new to me. The 5 chicks I hatched in incubator drank and fed on chick feed right away.

 

[Laskaland]

First:

They don't need to eat right away, remember when yours hatch they sit in the incubator for at least 24 hours, so when it's time mama hen will show them what to do

She took the hassle outta your life!!

 

[chickbea]

MAKE ABSOLUTELY SURE THAT THE CHICKS DO NOT HAVE ACCESS TO A LAYER FORMULATION!
There is too much calcium and it can be deadly to chicks. When I had a mom and babies, I filled the hopper with chick food and momma ate that as well. Once a day I'd give momma the chance to eat some oyster shell out of my hand so that she didn't get deficient. Whenever possible, let them out to free range and momma will show them how to hunt bugs - cutest thing I ever saw!

 

[Judy]

Quote:
What she said.