- May 18, 2011
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Hello, 2 months ago I sucessfully incubator hatched 25 chicks. Half are Speckled Sussex and half are Barred Rock x Easter Eggers. The chicks were all healthy and thriving until 2 days ago when I observed a BRx having difficulty moblilizing. Her legs became stiff and she walked like someone on skates for the first time. She got wobblier and more unstable as the day wore on. She became floppy and I eventually put her down yesterday as she could barely mobilize and seemed to be suffering. Then today a SS chick who is much smaller than its siblings started looking weak and puffed up, is vocalizing constantly and has difficulty getting around. She doesn't stagger but runs and collapses. Her breathing is rapid. She did attempt to eat this morning. I separated the chick and am not sure what to do next. All the babies are in their own nursery coop which is large, clean and airy. They have their own fenced in run which they can access at will. They eat ShurGain Medicated Chick Starter and have fresh water twice daily. The only variables that may be important are that we have had extremely high (30c ) temperatures for the past 2 wks and lots of rain. None of the chicks have gotten wet or were out during the heat of the day before there was shade available. I have had chickens for about 4 years and my flock totals 103, including these chicks. Does anyone have experience with this or nay advice? I would be most grateful. Twink