Will a hen adopt chicks?

[mallorysinclair]

I brought six chicks home today and am hoping that one of my hens will adopt them and mother them. Is this realistic? Two hens had no interest when I introduced them in the brooder, but one (a bufff orpington) has been really curious and is sitting near by them. The chicks are under the heat lamp, so I don't know if it's too warm for her. She pecked at them twice, but has left them alone since then. Any thoughts about how successful or unsuccessful this might be?

 

[Remudamom]

I wouldn't attempt it unless you have a broody hen.