Backyard Fowl Keepers

Check for parasites! Internal and external parasites can cause weight loss. Deworming and dusting for mites might be a good first step before focusing on diet.

Were they housed with a lot of other birds at the show? It's possible they picked up something there.

I'd be prepared with an incubator. Once the first chicks hatch, she may abandon the remaining eggs, and you'll need to finish them yourself if you want a chance at a full hatch.

Egg pecking can be a bad habit if she figures out eggs are food. Collect them as soon as possible and consider adding ceramic or wooden eggs to discourage pecking.

I had the same problem, so I put feed in a hanging feeder. It cut down on waste in the bedding a lot!

Maybe give her a little soft bedding area to rest in so she's less likely to irritate it while it heals.

If you're really concerned, you could try adding more protein to her diet, like scrambled eggs or mealworms. Sometimes, skin changes can result from a lack of certain nutrients.

Your flock sounds amazing! Mixed flocks really do have the best personalities. Do you have a favorite hen?

I think your instincts are right to try again at night. The low-light and calm environment will give the hen a chance to bond with the chicks without distractions. I would also recommend warming the chicks a bit before placing them under her, just to make sure they're nice and cozy.

I love my Jersey Giants too, but they take a while to start laying. Maybe mix in some Rhode Island Reds for steady egg production.