Will my hen accept 2 new chicks with her 4 day old chick?

[wyochick10]

My broody was sitting on 3 eggs. One of them hatched on Sunday.(the other 2 did not) She's been a great mom so far. I also have 2 eggs pipping as I type. My original plan was for all the eggs to hatch at the same time (obviously that didn't happen!) and slip the ones in the incubator under the momma when they hatched. My question is, is it too late for the hen to accept the ones that are hatching now? Or should I raise them in a brooder? Thank you for any help

 

[Northwest_Wannabe]

It may depend on the momma! Watch her very closely. She may try to start moving her chicks and feeding and watering them and the younger two may not be ready at that time, or she could be totally fine. Keep a close eye on them, good luck!

 

[SueT]

My immediate thought is no, it has been too long since #1 hatched. But you never know. Some hens are so motherly it may work. If you do this, be prepared to monitor very very closely.
Good luck! Please update us!

 

[wyochick10]

@SueT that's exactly what I am thinking. The little one is already moving around and eating but the hen is being such a good mom right now. I just don't know if I want to risk it. EEEK! Thank you

 

[wyochick10]

Well I put the 2 new chicks out with the momma early this morning and so far so good!

 

[SueT]

Well I put the 2 new chicks out with the momma early this morning and so far so good!

sounds like she's a super mama! any pics?

 

[wyochick10]

yay! No pics yet. I’ll try later today!