mixing chicks of different ages

[chickenfan]

Hi,

I've recently had two broody hens hatch two lots of chicks (rather too early in the year). They are a week apart in age. The first broody rejected one chick but the second broody is a wonderful mother and has taken the older, rejected chick this evening. Is a two week old chick OK with a brood of one week old chicks (7 in number)?

 

[Chuck]

Should be OK but be prepared to step in if things go wrong.

 

[chrismahon]

The biggest difference we have successfully mixed, without any problems, is 6 days. So as Chuck says, keep a close eye on things Chickenfan.

 

[tygrysek75]

I know a breeder who keeps all chicks from 1day old to 14days old together.

 

[chickenfan]

Thank you, all worked well!

Also, the chick I helped out of the egg is looking fine.

My first broody is a hopeless mother and pecks her chicks, so I think I will put them under the electric hen tonight.

Thanks to everyone for your advice.