11 day old chicks- eating anything and everything

[1stflockMama]

OK, last week I noticed our babies were itchy and feathers growing fast, so I wanted to offer a dustbath of just plain Ole dirt from our yard. I ground it up to almost a powder and filled a shallow Tupperware lid. I mixed a smidgen of dried lavender to help them relax. Who doesn't love a relaxing bath right?
They ate it! I talked to my aunt and she suggested mixing some chick grit in the dirt as well... they ate that too.
Should I refill it and try again?
Are they too young for pampered chicken dust bath?
Also, how do I use grit? And when can I offer meal worms or other snacks?

 

[PrettyBirdRocky]

Refill and refill and refill lol I know chicks don't require grit or dirt at hatch but we've always provided it and it's too cute to watch them fluff around in the tubberware like they are preparing themselves and marinading lol

It helps give them something else to do as well.

ETA: yes they will eat it. It won't hurt them. Although I caution from experience to be on lookout out for coccidiosis. Getting them used to the dirt is good

 

[ShrekDawg]

Definitely not too young

 

[1stflockMama]

Here are the lovely ladies

 

[ShrekDawg]

Here are the lovely ladies

So cute!!!!

 

[1stflockMama]

Refill and refill and refill lol I know chicks don't require grit or dirt at hatch but we've always provided it and it's too cute to watch them fluff around in the tubberware like they are preparing themselves and marinading lol

It helps give them something else to do as well.

Yay! I was worried it would get compact like with certain reptiles kept on sand.

 

[1stflockMama]

So cute!!!!

Thank you!!! They are still a little shy only 3 of them will crawl in my hands for love.

 

[ShrekDawg]

Thank you!!! They are still a little shy only 3 of them will crawl in my hands for love.

Awwww they’ll get there lol

 

[1stflockMama]

Definitely not too young

Thanks

 

[rosemarythyme]

That's far too shallow for a dust bath so they're acting more like it's a feeder. Instead of the lid, use the tupperware tub, something deep enough that they can wear a rut into it. No need for the lavender and don't need to grind it down, just give them the dirt as is.

With grit, my approach is to add a pinch on their food once every few days. Prevents them from gorging on it.