Broody Barred Rock Hen Hatches Her 1st Chicks

Our 11 month old barred rock hen just hatched her first chicks! She went broody a few weeks ago and we needed to move her into the "nursery" coop that our turkeys are still occupying because as the other hens laid their eggs in other nestboxes, she was nest hopping. She had to have all the eggs. So we gathered up all the eggs from the day and moved her and her eggs to the nursery. She happily incubated her 10 eggs until all but one hatched. (She did call to it, but apparently didn't get any chirps back, so she brought the other babes out and focused on them). We have to say, after only having mail-order chicks - there is such a difference in momma-raised & hatched chicks. The poor little ones we usually get are always very healthy, but very tired from their journey. What a way to get introduced to life! They recover of course, but these guys were just up and running. We love seeing the interactions between the babies and their mama. Candy (our hen) is such a good mama. She has a special place in our hearts already as she is very affectionate and enjoys people time! Watch our newest chicks' adventurous first days!