When Will A Hen Abandon Her Chicks?

[OpheliaChick]

I have a hen who I let hatch and take care of some chicks. The chicks are now about 6 weeks old and today she is not leading them around the yard like she use to. The chicks are off in one part of the yard and the mother hen is with the rest of the chickens in another part of the yard. Is there a certain age at which the mother hen will abandon her chicks because she thinks that they can now take care of themselves?

Last night a predator broke into the dog house that the mother hen and the chicks were sleeping in. Three chicks died.

Could this have something to do with her lack of interest in the chicks?

Any ideas would be great!!

 

[Mrs. Fluffy Puffy]

My hen abandon her chicks when they're around your chicks age. It's normal. If your hen starts to lay again then you'll know for sure.

 

[Why and Dotte]

4-6 wks is the time they start letting their chicks have more freedom.
You'll have to set up a brooder for them eventually.
I think regardless of mama being there or not they still would have not had a chance, I'm sorry for your losses

 

[fishermans wife]

I am so sorry to hear of your loss!