As the weather warms up, people start to think about chicks. They are available for sale at all local feed mills, including Tractor Supply and Rural King. Their cuteness can be hard to resist!
That being said, you can’t just walk into a store and come out with chicks. You have to have the right setup in order to get the eggs that you are going to want.
Here are some tips for raising chicks into full-grown chickens.
One of the most important aspects of raising chicks is ensuring they are warm enough.
Baby chicks are born without feathers, which makes it hard for them to regulate their body heat.
It is recommended that you keep the temperature around ninety-five degrees in your brooder. As they age, you can decrease the temperature. But you should watch your chicks to see how they behave. If they are cold, you will find them all huddled together. If they are too hot, they will be spread far apart, acting like they want to escape from the brooder.
While most people use heat lamps, like this one, the truth is that they can be a fire hazard. More and more people are using safer alternatives, such as these plates that fit well in any brooder.
They make multiple sizes, so whether you have a small brooder or a larger one, there should be one that is the perfect size!
Make sure that your chicks have plenty of fresh water.
There are numerous attractive waterers available on the market. The ones that work best allow many chicks to get water at the same time, without too much crowding. You may also want to use one that isn’t too deep, so that your chicks don’t drown in the water. If you have multiple chicks, you may want to use several waterers in the brooder.
And buy high-quality food.
Most chicks are started out on a “chick-starter,” which is a blend of grains and supplements that are easily digested by chicks. Though you may be able to make your own chick starter, it is often easier to buy the commercial stuff to make sure that your chicks get everything that they need.
Though you may want to feed all your chickens and chicks the same thing, you can’t feed chicks feed that is designed for laying hens, because this has too much calcium for them.
Then, all you have to do is keep them clean!
Chicks can be very messy. They poop all over their brooder, multiple times a day. As they get their wings, they may even perch above their feeder and waterers, pooping in them. They throw their bedding around, so it’s essential to clean the water daily.
That being said, raising chicks can be a very rewarding project for your family. Chicks who are raised by a family are more likely to be friendly. As they grow, they may learn to run toward you when you call. Some even like to be held!
So, make sure that you keep them warm and dry. You are going to want to either use a heat lamp, or a heat plate (which is a little safer.) Take care of the waterers and refill the feeders every day. Before you know it, your chicks will turn into adults and be happy to give you lots of eggs!
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You also need to think about the future, when they are adult hens. You are going to need a good chicken coop.
My dream chicken coop is an Omlet! These plastic coops with fencing are easy to clean and move, so your chickens can have fresh grass every day!
If you can’t afford an Omlet, you may want to look at their automatic doors for your chicken coop. This will ensure that your chickens get put away every night, and you don’t have to worry about predators getting them.
Chickens need enrichment to have a good life. If you are looking for quality accessories for your chickens, you should check these out.
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Please note, this article contains affiliate links, where I will receive compensation if you buy the product, without any extra cost to you.
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You should also note that the information provided is for educational and informational purposes only. Although I am a veterinary professional, this blog should not be used as a substitute for professional veterinary advice.
If your pet is experiencing a medical problem or concern, please contact a veterinary health professional immediately.