How long for a hen to imprint?

[pebojuno]

After a terrible incubator hatch we decided to try giving the six chicks (day old) which made it to one of my pekin broodies- she has been sitting for a few weeks so we thought she could take care of them for us!

We moved the hen and the eggs she was sitting on into a cardboard box and once she was settled took an egg at a time and replaced it with a chick until all six little chicks were under her.

I left her alone to settle, then cut a doorway in her box so she and the chicks can get in and out and help themselves to food and water and move around a little better.

She seems to be happy enough but isn't yet making the mothering noises which hens usually make at their chicks- Anyone know how long it takes for a hen to properly imprint with the chicks?

 

[foxy]

I have done that with day old ducklings with great success, it took a while as if she was acting like they had just hatched so sat quietly for about a day I think.

 

[pebojuno]

Thanks Foxy- Have had lots of broodies hatch their own chicks but never attempted an adoption

All going well at the moment so fingers crossed she'll take to them!

 

[pebojuno]

Good news Foxy- She's still happy with her brood- she doesn't want them up and about yet but the chicks are clambering all over her and she seems relaxed enough.

Am delighted because there was one orpington chick who looked a bit weaker than the others and he looks great this morning- he just needed a mum

 

[pebojuno]

Here she is - most of the chicks are camera shy and I had to adjust the contrast a bit as it was really dark so it looks a bit odd!

 

[foxy]

That's one happy looking mum and her chicks!