Two that escaped the shell this morn are still in incubator coming alive & drying. Surprised, as one seemed weak.
Pictures?@flowerbug Most hens are not happy to take in unknown chicks. Silkies being exceptions! So while she's acting somewhat broodyish, you can't bank on it! Plus night time is the most opportunistic for adding chicks. I can't see that she's "setting" a nest anywhere stable. So while that would be super great to be a nanny happen, probably won't. I'd sure try if she was already nest bound.
So the incubator hatch is pretty dismal. The dz eggs I bought had 9 duds. Of 3 hatched, one died. The others I added from own hens...8 hatched plus 2 had to help this morn. One of those might not make it. A couple more pipped but didn't get out.
Tomorrow will tell me more. Looks like 8-10 will be final tally. Which is ok, even with the losses, it's enough chicks! Still have 4 outside with momma hen plus 4 half grow pullets bought.... Overall I will add 10-12 hens to flock -- depending on who crows as they grow
I am so glad they are hatching and doing good!! after all you went through to get them hatched.8 are teaching each other to eat & drink in brooder
