The miracle of life unfolding in your backyard is truly a special experience. When a hen goes broody and successfully hatches a clutch of chicks, it’s a testament to the natural order and a reward for providing a healthy environment. However, knowing what to do when baby chicks hatch under a chicken is crucial for their well-being and the overall success of your flock. This comprehensive guide covers everything from initial observations to long-term care, ensuring a smooth transition for both the mother hen and her new brood.
Observing the First Few Hours and Days
The first few hours after hatching are critical. Resist the urge to immediately interfere. The mother hen knows exactly what to do. She’ll diligently tend to her chicks, keeping them warm and dry. Your primary role during this period is to observe from a distance, ensuring everything is progressing naturally.
Watch for signs of distress or weakness in the chicks. Are they moving around, peeping, and staying close to the hen? A healthy chick will be active and alert. A chick that appears lethargic or struggles to keep up may need intervention.
The hen will also be teaching her chicks crucial survival skills. This includes showing them where food and water are located and how to peck and forage. It’s a beautiful display of natural instinct and maternal care.
Ensuring Adequate Food and Water
While the chicks initially absorb nutrients from the yolk sac, they’ll soon need access to fresh food and water. The challenge is providing this without allowing the other chickens in the flock to access it and potentially harm the chicks.
A shallow dish of chick starter feed is essential. Chick starter is a specially formulated feed that provides the necessary nutrients for rapid growth and development. Ensure the dish is shallow enough for the chicks to easily access it without the risk of drowning.
Water is equally important. Provide a chick waterer, which is designed to prevent chicks from falling in and drowning. Change the water daily to keep it clean and fresh. Consider adding electrolytes to the water for the first few days to help the chicks stay hydrated and recover from the hatching process.
Consider placing the food and water within a designated area, perhaps a small pen within the coop, that only the hen and chicks can access. This prevents larger chickens from bullying the chicks and ensures they get enough to eat and drink.
Protecting the Chicks from the Elements
Baby chicks are incredibly vulnerable to temperature changes. They lack the ability to regulate their body temperature effectively and rely on the hen for warmth.
Ensure the coop is draft-free and provides adequate shelter from the elements. If the weather is cold, you may need to provide supplemental heat. A heat lamp is a common solution, but be sure to use it safely and position it correctly to avoid overheating or creating a fire hazard.
Monitor the chicks’ behavior to gauge their comfort level. If they are huddled together directly under the heat lamp, they are likely too cold. If they are spread out and avoiding the heat lamp, they may be too hot. Adjust the height of the lamp accordingly.
Even in warmer weather, chicks need protection from direct sunlight and rain. Make sure they have access to shaded areas and a dry place to escape from the elements.
Separating the Broody Hen and Chicks (If Necessary)
In some situations, separating the broody hen and her chicks from the rest of the flock may be necessary. This is particularly true if you have aggressive chickens that are likely to harass or harm the chicks.
Signs that separation is necessary include:
- Other chickens pecking at the chicks
- Other chickens stealing the chicks’ food
- The hen being constantly harassed by other chickens
- The chicks appearing stressed or injured
If you decide to separate the hen and chicks, create a separate pen or coop for them. This pen should be large enough for the hen to move around comfortably and for the chicks to explore. It should also be secure enough to prevent the chicks from escaping and to protect them from predators.
Slowly introduce the hen and chicks back to the flock after several weeks when the chicks are larger and more confident. Supervise these interactions closely to ensure the chicks are not being bullied.
Providing a Safe and Stimulating Environment
Once the chicks are settled, focus on providing a safe and stimulating environment that promotes their growth and development.
Offer a variety of enrichment activities, such as:
- Dust baths: Provide a shallow container filled with dirt or sand for the chicks to dust bathe. This helps them keep their feathers clean and free of parasites.
- Perches: Install small perches in the pen for the chicks to practice roosting.
- Foraging opportunities: Scatter treats such as mealworms or chopped greens in the pen to encourage foraging behavior.
- Toys: Offer simple toys such as bells or mirrors to provide visual stimulation.
A healthy environment is crucial for preventing disease. Keep the coop clean and dry, and regularly disinfect it to prevent the buildup of bacteria and parasites.
Monitor the chicks for signs of illness, such as:
- Lethargy
- Loss of appetite
- Diarrhea
- Respiratory problems
- Unusual behavior
If you suspect a chick is ill, isolate it from the rest of the flock and consult with a veterinarian or experienced poultry keeper.
Long-Term Care of the Chicks
As the chicks grow, their needs will change. Gradually transition them from chick starter feed to grower feed at around 6-8 weeks of age. Grower feed has a lower protein content than chick starter feed, which helps to prevent rapid growth and skeletal problems.
Continue to provide a safe and stimulating environment. As the chicks get older, they will need more space to roam and explore. Consider expanding their pen or allowing them to free-range in a secure area.
At around 16-20 weeks of age, the pullets (young hens) will start laying eggs. Provide them with nesting boxes filled with clean straw or shavings.
The cockerels (young roosters) may start to become aggressive at this age. If you are not planning to keep the cockerels, you may need to separate them from the pullets to prevent fighting.
Dealing with Common Challenges
Raising chicks is not without its challenges. Be prepared to deal with common problems such as:
- Coccidiosis: A parasitic disease that can cause diarrhea and death in chicks. Prevent coccidiosis by keeping the coop clean and dry and by providing medicated chick starter feed.
- Pasty butt: A condition in which feces accumulate around the chick’s vent, blocking it. Treat pasty butt by gently cleaning the vent with warm water and a soft cloth.
- Predators: Protect the chicks from predators such as hawks, foxes, and raccoons by providing a secure coop and run.
- Bullying: If chicks are being bullied by other chickens, separate them from the flock until they are large enough to defend themselves.
Remember to consult with a veterinarian or experienced poultry keeper if you have any concerns about the health or well-being of your chicks.
Integrating the Chicks into the Existing Flock
Introducing the new chicks to the existing flock requires patience and careful observation. It’s a gradual process that minimizes stress and potential harm.
First, allow the chicks and the established flock to see and smell each other through a fence or wire barrier. This allows them to get used to each other’s presence without direct contact. This period of familiarization can last for a week or two.
After the initial introduction period, begin short supervised visits in a larger area. Closely monitor the interactions between the older chickens and the chicks. Intervene immediately if you see any signs of aggression.
Provide plenty of space and multiple feeding and watering stations to reduce competition. This will help prevent the older chickens from monopolizing resources and bullying the chicks.
Continue to supervise the integration process until you are confident that the chicks are fully accepted into the flock. Be prepared to separate the chicks again if necessary.
The Joy of Raising Chicks Naturally
Raising chicks under a hen is a rewarding experience that allows you to witness the natural instincts of motherhood and the development of new life. By providing a safe, healthy, and stimulating environment, you can ensure that your chicks thrive and become productive members of your flock.
While there will undoubtedly be challenges along the way, the joy of watching your chicks grow and flourish will make it all worthwhile. Embrace the learning process and enjoy the unique connection you develop with your flock.
Remember that every flock is different, and what works for one may not work for another. Be patient, adaptable, and always prioritize the well-being of your chickens. With careful observation and a little bit of effort, you can successfully raise a healthy and happy flock of chickens naturally.
Understanding Broodiness and Preventing Future Hatches (Optional)
Broodiness is a natural instinct in hens, but it can sometimes be inconvenient if you don’t want to hatch more chicks. Understanding what triggers broodiness and how to discourage it can help you manage your flock more effectively.
Broodiness is often triggered by a build-up of eggs in the nest. Hens are more likely to go broody in the spring and summer months when daylight hours are longer. Certain breeds are also more prone to broodiness than others.
If you don’t want a hen to hatch eggs, you can try to break her broodiness. The most effective method is to remove her from the nest and place her in a wire-bottomed cage or pen. This allows air to circulate around her and reduces her body temperature, which can help to break her brooding instinct.
Another method is to collect eggs frequently throughout the day to prevent them from accumulating in the nest. You can also try to disrupt the hen’s nesting behavior by removing her nesting material or blocking access to the nesting box.
However, breaking a hen’s broodiness can be stressful for her. If you are not concerned about hatching more chicks, it may be best to simply let her sit on the eggs until she eventually gives up.
Final Thoughts
Raising chicks under a hen is a wonderful opportunity to connect with nature and experience the miracle of life. By providing the right care and attention, you can ensure that your chicks thrive and become a valuable part of your backyard flock. Enjoy the journey and the many rewards that come with raising chickens naturally. Your dedication will result in healthy, happy chickens and a constant supply of fresh eggs.
What if the mother hen abandons her newly hatched chicks?
If a mother hen abandons her chicks soon after hatching, immediate intervention is necessary. Gently observe the situation for a few hours to confirm she isn’t just momentarily away foraging. Signs of abandonment include chicks constantly peeping loudly and huddling together for warmth in a way that suggests the hen isn’t providing it.
If abandonment is confirmed, you must provide an alternative heat source. A heat lamp or brooder plate are essential to keep the chicks warm, maintaining a temperature of around 95 degrees Fahrenheit for the first week, then reducing it gradually each week. Ensure the chicks have access to fresh water and chick starter feed, placing it within easy reach. Monitor them closely to make sure they are eating, drinking, and staying warm.
How do I protect the chicks from other chickens in the flock?
The mother hen will typically protect her chicks from the rest of the flock, but it’s wise to provide extra protection. Creating a separate, safe space is crucial. This can be a small, fenced-off area within the main coop or a separate smaller coop altogether. This area should be accessible to the hen and her chicks but inaccessible to the larger, more aggressive chickens.
Observe the interaction between the hen and the rest of the flock. If you notice any persistent bullying or aggression, even with the separate area, consider temporarily separating the hen and her chicks entirely from the flock. This could involve moving them to a different location, such as a spare pen or even a large dog crate indoors, until the chicks are larger and better able to defend themselves.
What kind of feed should I give the mother hen and her chicks?
The chicks should be provided with chick starter feed. This feed is specifically formulated to meet the nutritional needs of growing chicks, containing higher levels of protein and other essential nutrients needed for healthy development. Place the feed and water in shallow dishes that are easily accessible to the chicks.
The mother hen can continue to eat her regular layer feed, but supplementing her diet with extra protein and calcium is beneficial. Offer her treats like mealworms or black soldier fly larvae to boost her protein intake. Also, provide her with a calcium supplement, like oyster shell, to help her replenish her calcium stores after laying and to support her milk production for the chicks.
When can the chicks be integrated into the main flock?
Integrating the chicks into the main flock should be a gradual process, starting when they are around 6-8 weeks old. The exact timing will depend on the size and temperament of your existing flock. Start by allowing supervised visits between the chicks and the other chickens.
During these supervised visits, closely observe the interactions between the chickens. If there is minimal pecking or aggression, you can gradually increase the amount of time the chicks spend with the flock. Make sure there are plenty of places for the chicks to escape if they feel threatened. Once the chicks are close to the size of the other chickens and can hold their own, they can be fully integrated.
What if the chicks get sick?
Monitor the chicks closely for any signs of illness. Symptoms can include lethargy, ruffled feathers, diarrhea, sneezing, or difficulty breathing. Early detection is crucial for successful treatment. If you notice any of these symptoms, isolate the sick chick from the rest of the flock immediately to prevent the spread of disease.
Consult with a veterinarian or experienced poultry keeper to determine the cause of the illness and the appropriate treatment. Common chick illnesses include coccidiosis and pasty butt. Depending on the diagnosis, treatment may involve antibiotics, medicated feed, or other interventions. Providing supportive care, such as ensuring the chick is warm, hydrated, and eating, is also essential.
How do I protect the chicks from predators?
Protecting chicks from predators is paramount to their survival, especially if they are free-ranging with their mother hen. Secure the coop and run with sturdy fencing, ensuring there are no gaps or holes that predators could exploit. Cover the top of the run with netting or wire mesh to prevent aerial predators like hawks or owls from attacking.
Regularly inspect the perimeter of the coop and run for signs of digging or other attempts by predators to gain access. Consider using motion-activated lights or noisemakers to deter predators. If you have persistent predator problems, a livestock guardian dog or guard animal can be a very effective deterrent. Supervise free-ranging time closely, especially during dawn and dusk when predators are most active.
How often should I clean the coop with chicks?
Maintaining a clean coop is essential for the health and well-being of both the hen and her chicks. Clean the coop more frequently than you would for adult chickens, aiming for at least once a week, or even more often if it becomes noticeably soiled. Remove wet or soiled bedding and replace it with fresh, dry bedding.
Ensure the coop is well-ventilated to prevent the build-up of ammonia from droppings. A buildup of ammonia can lead to respiratory problems in chicks. Periodically disinfect the coop with a poultry-safe disinfectant to kill bacteria and parasites. Regular cleaning helps to minimize the risk of disease and creates a healthy environment for the chicks to thrive.