1st time outside the brooder

[Trenton H]

I have chicks who are getting ready for their first time going outdoors. The run is on a grassy spot in the yard. Up till now they have been in a brooder, on pine shavings, and are being fed chick feed. Any advice for their first outing? Should we keep the time length small, or have them out for most of the day? They have not had any grit yet, should some be given before going out, and if so, how?

 

[kattabelly]

How old are they and what temperature is it outside where you are?

I always give chicks a serving of gritty mash before taking them out for the first time, for my own peace of mind if nothing else.

 

[Trenton H]

How old are they and what temperature is it outside where you are?

I always give chicks a serving of gritty mash before taking them out for the first time, for my own peace of mind if nothing else.

They are just over 5 weeks old, and it is a little over 80 degrees here. I have chick grit, how much do you mix in with the feed mash?

 

[nuthatched]

They could have been outside weeks ago. They can go out permanently..
Just put a pinch or two of grit on their food.

 

[KyCoop]

Your run is secure and covered? Do you have a panic box in case something scares them like a butterfly or a barking dog?

 

[kattabelly]

They are just over 5 weeks old, and it is a little over 80 degrees here. I have chick grit, how much do you mix in with the feed mash?

Oh they'll be totally fine at that age, I was assuming they were much younger. Just make sure they have access to shade if it's sunny, or shelter if it's rainy or windy (and check they know it's there and how to get there if want to), and keep a good eye on them at first. There's really no reason to not have them outside full time at that age.

Just a generous sprinkle of grit on top of the mash will be fine.

 

[Trenton H]

Thanks all for the replies. I would have put them outside earlier, but the run is still being finished, and will be done tomorrow. I have a 1/2 of a pet carrier that works well as a shelter.

 

[Trenton H]

I also have the coop to attach with the run, but that will moved into postion after the run is done, to properly level everything. So they will spend the nights in the brooder until then, only daytime outside,

 

[KyCoop]

Just take extra precautions with little chicken nuggets. Hawks will take a chick out from under your feet. Make 100% they are secure before you turn your back.