By Katie Ockert
Chicks require a warm brood, fresh water and starter feed.
For many of us, spring signals a time of rebirth and new adventures. Many people will be adding to their homesteads by purchasing baby chicks from their local farm store or another source. Chicks are delicate creatures and require some tender, loving care during the first few weeks of life. Here are some tips from Michigan State University Extension and Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development to help you be prepared to provide the best start you can to your new additions.
Bringing your chicks home:
- Have a brooder, a first home, for your baby chicks that is warm, draft-free and has about 0.5 to 1 square foot of space per chick.
- Prepare your brooder with 3-4 inches of bedding that is absorbent- and odor-free. Tip: Pine wood shavings or chopped straw work best.
- Use a heat lamp to keep temperatures between 92-95 degrees Fahrenheit. Keep heat lamps securely fastened to prevent them from falling and lighting the bedding on fire.
Caring for your chicks:
- Clean, fresh water should be provided daily away from the heat lamp. Tip: Use a shallow waterer.
- Prove fresh chick starter feed that protects against coccidiosis near the water.
- Decrease the temperature 5 F each week until it reaches a minimum of 55 F.
- Change and refresh your chicks’ bedding daily. Tip: Dedicate one pair of shoes for this task.
- Remind visitors that your chicks are VERY fragile!
Remember to observe your chicks and their environment daily, if not several times per day, to make sure they are healthy, comfortable and have adequate feed and water.
Source:msu.edu