I use the wood pellets after a couple of days in paper towels. they learn about the crumbles and water and all that then the pellets, I try not to let them get to sawdust. scoop out the dust and add some more pellets. I also hand feed my chicks once a day or so too. they love to jump in your hand and scratch around and eat stuff, even if its just crumbles they think its something momma got em