Is reptile sand (pure calcium substrate) safe for chicks?

[LulaBellLayers]

My chicks have started trying to dust bathe in their brooder and I'd like to add a plate of sand. Is reptile sand safe?

 

[azygous]

It's probably not a good idea if it is pure calcium. Chicks will consume a significant amount of anything you put into their brooder, and calcium is something they shouldn't have. It can cause problems with their development. It needs to be kept out of their diet until they reach point of lay.

Use regular sand instead. Anything except play sand.

 

[LulaBellLayers]

Thank you@azygous. My local feed store only had that kind. I saved the receipt in case it wasn't what they needed. Would Tractor Supply have what I need?

 

[azygous]

The best and cheapest place to get a bit of sand is a gravel yard where they sell sand gravel and cement. Take a container with you, say a couple buckets. They will fill them for you and it'll be enough for your brooder and then some, maybe cost all of a buck or two. Ask for fine sand or masonry sand.

I pay $40 per yard, but that would be a large pickup truck full. I use sand in my runs and haul it home myself.