advice needed.

[libbyloulou]

Hi, i have 1 cockeral and two hens, one of which is sitting on two eggs, one is hatching, what i need to know is, will the cock do any damage to the little one ? he is rather nasty, they are not his eggs, it's the first time he will of seen a young un, should i get rid of him?thanks

[shirlthegirl43]

Mum will probably stick up for the little one but keep an eye on them and if Mr Doodleydoo is causing trouble take mum and the chicks and put them in a separate place if possible. Watch out for mum's beak though - they are very protective of their chicks.

[Birdie Wife]

The advice I've heard is that broody hens are best to have their own space and when the chicks hatch they can grow a bit beofre being introduced to the rest of the flock - they should have their own roosting space for about a month before taking their chances with the rest of the flock. As I haven't hatched out any chicks I'm not sure how common accidents are, but it would be a shame to lose them at this stage - any chance you can find a temporary space for them?

[libbyloulou]

Thanks for that, seperation it is then, don't want to give the cock a chance,as i think that one decent peck, and it could all be over with. i think giving them alternate days of freedom is the way forward, thanks.