Hi guys,
Our eggs are under our broody and due to hatch on Sat. I've realised that I'm utterly clueless about what comes next. I've had a search online but most of what I find seems to be to do with incubating eggs and when I do find information about broodies it seems to be contradictory. So I've come here with my questions
1) I need a good poultry book, any recommendations?
2) Chick crumb. I understand they are on this from day 2 until 8 weeks. Do I need the anti-coccidia one? I have 6 hens and a cockerel free ranging over a large garden. My hens are unvaccinated. One thing I read said if they are with a broody they will get immunity from her, another said that you should always use it. I also saw you need mixed grit for them. Mine has some really large pieces, is that ok or do I need to grind it up more?
3) Housing. I currently have this but it doesn't seem very big once there is water and food in it. Do I need something bigger for them once they have hatched.
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Wooden-triangle-rabbit-Hutch-Easipet/dp/B00BU27SUC/ref=sr_1_10?s=pet-supplies&ie=UTF8&qid=1467070922&sr=1-10&keywords=rabbit+runMaybe like this:
https://www.amazon.co.uk/VivaPet-Outdoor-Octagon-Protection-55-inch/dp/B0064NOR5G/ref=sr_1_4?s=pet-supplies&ie=UTF8&qid=1467070922&sr=1-4&keywords=rabbit+run4) Once they hit 8 weeks I saw one article saying to take the hen away at that point. Do I need to do that? When can I integrate them with the rest of my flock? I also saw one place saying to separate out the cockerels at 18 weeks I think. Do I then keep them on for a bit longer until they are ready for eating or can I keep them in with the others until they reach that stage?
If you have any other pearls of wisdom for raising chicks with a broody that I haven't asked for, feel free to give them!
Thank you all. Hopefully I will soon have some pictures of happy chicks to share with you.