How to Create a Safe Environment for Hens with Chicks

Keeping hens and their chicks safe requires planning and care. Enjoy the wonder of hatched chicks while ensuring they stay protected from common dangers with a large, secure run and a suitable hen house. This guide helps you create a safe environment for your mother hen and her chicks in your backyard or smallholdings.

How to Create a Safe Environment for Your Hen & Her Chicks

When a hen goes broody, she will incubate eggs for about 21 days. Often sitting on a dozen eggs, she rarely leaves the nest until the chicks hatch and dry themselves. Once the chicks hatch, the hen will teach them to scratch, forage, and explore. Find hens for sale if you are considering getting a broody hen. To keep them safe, prepare a secure run and hutch for the hen and chicks before they hatch. Move them to this new area at night when chickens are calmer and easier to handle. This transition gives the hen and chicks a safe space to grow until the chicks can navigate potential hazards like water containers or escape routes.

Ensure Runs Are Predator-Proof and Contain Proper Wire Mesh

The wire mesh on your hen run must have small holes no larger than 2cm to prevent chicks escaping or predators gaining access. If the wire holes are too large, use smaller holed wire overlays to secure the area. Always check the connection between chicken house and run for gaps where chicks could get stuck or escape. Replace deep water dishes with shallow ones to prevent soakings or drowning, refreshing their water frequently. This not only protects the young chicks but gives peace of mind to you as a keeper.

Feeding Your Hen and Chicks for Healthy Growth

Feed the hen and her chicks with starter chick crumbs, a specially formulated diet rich in essential vitamins and trace elements vital during their first six weeks. Always provide fresh, clean water in shallow containers to avoid drowning. After six weeks, gradually transition the chicks and hen onto layers mash or pellets while continuing to offer occasional food scraps like vegetable peelings to enhance their diet and encourage natural foraging behaviour. This nutritional care supports robust bone development and immune health.

Addressing a Surplus of Male Chicks Responsibly

It's common to hatch more males than females, which can cause overcrowding issues as the cockerels mature. Consider rehoming extra males responsibly through local rescue centres or adoption schemes, supporting animal welfare. Prevent inbreeding by keeping young pullets separate from existing males if you plan to breed, creating separate pens and hen houses as needed. Responsible management ensures your flock's genetic health and reduces stress among birds.

Practical Tips for Broody Hen Care and Nest Maintenance

Clean the nesting box thoroughly after the hen has left it to prevent bacterial buildup and keep the environment hygienic. Replace soiled bedding with fresh straw regularly. Avoid disturbing the hen while she is sitting on her chicks as this can cause stress. Providing a calm, quiet atmosphere helps maintain her health and nurturing instincts during this critical time.

Conclusion

Allowing hens to hatch chicks can be a delightful experience but requires thorough preparation and ongoing care. Prioritising secure housing, careful nutrition, and responsible flock management helps ensure happy, healthy hens and chicks. If you plan to breed chickens regularly, adequate space and investment in proper infrastructure are essential. Embrace the joy of raising chicks with this mindful and safe approach.