Whilst I am here, I might ask another question if I may...

 

I have a hen with 7 chicks. Is she going to be able to handle all of these? I know about fostering and have done it before, however, the only other hen with chicks has 5 of her own. Is there anything I can do with this hen with her huge brood?

 

Many thanks - as always your comments and suggestions are greatfully received.

 

Stendorosa

If the ages of the chicks are close you can foster one from the large clutch. even then out so to speak

Is the hen an experienced breeder? With 7 chicks, I think she would be okay if she was, since the older ones are probably being fed more often by the cock bird now, the hen will not have as huge a task as it seems. There is 2 weeks difference in age between the oldest and youngest baby, right? I'd just watch them and if it looks like the pair is struggling, take the older babies out for an occasional hand feeding to ease the strain on your breeding birds.