i was just wondering how old chicks had to be before you can hand feed them as i am worried about the hen

I think 3-4 weeks is the best time to start as they have some feathers to stay warm by then.

 

Why are you worried about the mother?

i was worried because as the two older babies started to get feathers it was like they were stood on and they didn't make it and i really don't want to see it again but the 4 that are left don't have feathers yet so i suppose i'll just have to keep my fingers crossed and hope it doesn't happen again

Could the mummy bird be plucking the feathers? How old are the babies?

Could the mummy bird be plucking the feathers? How old are the babies?

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they are about 12 days

Do they have obvious bald spots?

I pull them at 1 1/2 to 2 weeks but I have a heatlamp.