Had a unique experience this afternoon. First off, I live in northeast SC surrounded by open fields/pines. I went out to cut grass this afternoon and a hen walked out of some brush near my pond and stood in front of me and the lawn mower without moving. We had a standoff for a while before she finally walked off into the trees. On my second pass I see why she didn't want to move. About a dozen of her babies walked out of the brush running around. I sit there watching this and see the hen walk back to them before they head into the woods. I guess my question is, do y'all think I messed up her nesting area or do you believe they will come back to her nest? I hope they stick around. I have shot a Tom each of the last two seasons that has been with her.
Should be fine
Once the poults hatch they leave the nest almost immediately. At about 10 days old they will be able to fly to low branches to roost, until then they will sleep on the ground but not in a nest.
thank god u didnt hit them i hit a whole group of them once it had ten or so in it feathers went everywhere i still feel bad to this day never did see the mother. i always walk the fields first now no matter how big the fields are. and they will be fine
They will be fine......
Thanks guys. Kind of funny to watch these little birds try to fly. Hopefully the majority of them make it long enough to be hunted. Unfortunately I have a huge bobcat and a few coyotes I keep getting on my trail cameras hanging around. Hopefully mama hen can keep them hidden.