should i separate newly hatched chicks from hen

[Anonymous]

Broody hen has 2 wee chicks under her this morning. Simple question - do I leave them with her or do I remove them and keep them in a box or something. David suggested when I asked about the goslings that we leave things to nature - so have put down chick crumbs for them and ensure they have water enough but not so much to drown in! Otherwise they are in the pen with the other geese who are very protective of them - but not viscious at all. Will the wee chicks be OK with the hen or would they do better somewhere other and where I could be sure they are getting all they need food/water and safe from predators. It is tempting to collect all the young and have them someplace other. Mrs Duck is sitting on her eggs too - my goodness its all so exciting. Oh, and my piggy is pregnant too! The best of times. Many thanks for any help. N.

 

[snifter]

If she has sat on the eggs the past few weeks and has hatched her chicks, I'd let her sit on them and bring them up. Just ensure she is in a decent broody ark and that once the rest of the eggs are hatched (or removed if not going to) she has a safe run area for her and the chicks to venture out in to till they are bigger.

 

[mightymohan]

Mum knows best!