When to take them out? (Still need help!)

[TheChickenMomma]

Hi!

So, I have a broody hen sitting on 8 mixed (read: unsure of breed) eggs

. They are due to hatch this weekend and the beginning of next week. Its a staggered hatch. I plan on raising them in a brooder. Also, I do not plan on separating my broody hen & eggs from the rest of the flock.

But, since it is a staggered hatch , when do I take the chicks out of the main coop? How do I know they will be safe, if they hatch when I am not there?

As you can see, I need help. Also, any tips on hatching them/brooder-y stuff would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks!

- TheChickenMomma

 

[Judy]

The hen's instinct is to let some hatch then leave the rest to raise the chicks, presumably when the first chicks are a day or so old and she sees the need to take them out to eat and drink. You may have some real problems with her if you interfere -- or you may not. Typically, they get rathr frantic if their chicks are removed. If there is a good time to do this, I don't know when it would be.


She should keep her chicks safe from any attack hens in the flock, if her broody/mama instincts are intact.

 

[TheChickenMomma]

Hmmm...

So, I should probably separate her from the flock?

 

[TheChickenMomma]

Still need help!