Any thoughts on what is happening?

[youngwagon]

Okay I have a problem and dont know what could be the cause. To date I have lost 5 chicks / hens. There is no signs of outward cause, ie pecks, sores, infections and such. Seem fine the day before then the next.....1 gone. I assumed the first couple was due to size and establishment of "pecking" order, due to the size and age (they were the runts per say). However now I have lost 1 of the larger ones. They are all appx 12 weeks old and have always seemed to be in fine health. All active and fecal matter has no abnormalities.

The timeline of loss is: about 6 weeks - 1 / 7th week - 3 (diffrent days) / 12th week (today) - 1.

They are in a locked coop at night and roam the runs in the day. Any advice or thoughts would be greatly appreciated.

 

[schellie69]

Could it be any plants that they are eating? I am not sure I guess the only way would be a necropsy done either by a vet or the state vet hospital .

 

[youngwagon]

Right now there is only grass and mud in the runs. Waiting for the rain to stop before I put in the "chicken garden".

 

[Rebel Rooster]

Is it possible that they are getting mold poising? IE, old feed stuck in the feeder and so in...

 

[youngwagon]

I dont think so, I feed via pan. I do appreciate these ideas, it is helping my wife and I think this through.

 

[cocosandy]

are they on medicated chick starter?

 

[youngwagon]

Yes. They are on Dumor show poultry, from Purina Mills. We chose it because it says it is a "from hatch to show" feed.

 

[cocosandy]

I dont think thats medicated so they are not protected from common chick illnesses. Maybe try some antibiotics in the water and/or corrid.
Look for any sort of nasal discharge or clear runny eyes...any weakness in legs etc...
The feed you're using has a higher protein than others, and you may want to look at that as well.
Good luck.

 

[youngwagon]

Double checked and the label say medicated. Ideal for the prevention of coccidiosis and alot of other illness I cant pronouce (haha) Called in a couple of ol'time chicken farmers and they are stopping by tomorrow to have a look see. I hope all is well. Thank you everyone for your ideas, appreciate it!