Broody Buckeye Hatches Chicks!

The eggs under our broody Buckeye hen (see Building A Broody Box) were due to hatch starting yesterday (Tuesday) when it would have been 20 days since we set eggs under her; so we were shocked on Saturday when this showed up: Naturally, we then expected more eggs would be hatching shortly - but nothing on Sunday, or Monday, or even Tuesday.  We almost gave up.  Then today, another chick finally showed up (it’s under her left shoulder):And, a little while later, it looks like there are two more under there:

We’re waiting on the final count, but it appears that she’ll hatch a small clutch this time – it’s the first time around for everyone involved and we’re all learning.   I’m thrilled that any hatched – we have peeps again; and a mama hen willing to raise them too.  

On top of that, the second Buckeye hen to go broody (see Candling Broodies Eggs) has been patiently waiting for her turn in the broody box.  We plan to set eggs under her too in a few days, and see if we can’t get a couple of hens in the flock that are good mothers.