Chuckov Posted September 15, 2010 Share Posted September 15, 2010 Could I just run my plans for the chicks past a few more experienced people please? We originally had 4 chicks (Cream Legbars), 2 boys, 2 girls - boys were despatched in about week 2. The girls are doing well and are still in with 'mum' (RIR/Sussex hybrid), and whilst she has not been mean to them (and screams like a banshee if our other adult hen goes anywhere near), I notice that the chicks appear pretty much independent during the day and wander off on their own, eat on their own, do all the things adult chickens do - and when they go into the nesting box at night, they are sat next to her but no longer tuck themselves under her presumably as they're too big. Is it time to move them out? Or should I wait until she is visibly fed up of them? If it's time for them to move out, could use some suggestions/ advice! Mum and the chicks are currently in the Eglu + run, and our other adult hen free ranges around the outside of the Eglu in the penned off area - and sleeps in a rabbit hutch at night (she is not impressed ). The rabbit hutch actually works very well. My plan was, to move the chicks into the rabbit hutch, putting a hot water bottle in the nesting box part at night for warmth, and to put both the adult hens in the Eglu so they would be separate from the chicks. This would mean that the chicks free-ranged during the day - are they too young for that - vulnerable to cats, crows etc? Does anyone have any alternative suggestions for living arrangements? any ideas gratefully received! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Redwing Posted September 15, 2010 Share Posted September 15, 2010 You can remove them now or wait until she is fed up of them - either will be fine I wouldnt allow the chicks to free range, they are very vulnerable as you say You could either Let the two hens sleep in the Eglu and remove them to free range in the day putting the chicks in the Eglu and run for the day or Let the two hens sleep in the rabbit hutch if you black out the larger wired door it will be fine for them at night, leave the small door open in the day so they can get in to lay Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Chuckov Posted September 16, 2010 Author Share Posted September 16, 2010 Thanks Tasha, good plan - will do the first thing you suggested. My broody will probably appreciate being able to stretch her legs a bit after a couple of months consigned to the run with the chickadees Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
