Baby chick found, need help!

[pennpal]

We live in hawaii, and I found a baby chick which is about 3 or 4 weeks old. I found it in some muddy water, we cleaned and dried her, and offered her some oats and water. Her legs dont seem to be working. The mama is around but would not help her when she was dirty. Should we keep her In a box, or release her to her mama.

 

[Cebarmlds]

If the mom is hanging around, I would try to see if she'll accept it.

 

[ChickNanny13]

You should get some Chick Starter for proper nutrition.
What do you mean "it's legs don't seem to be working"? Could you post a picture? IF there is something wrong with the chick, it's possible why the hen is not responding to it. Does the hen have other chicks with her? You could try leaving it out (if weather permits) see if the hen would call it to her. Keep a close eye as she may decide to "attack" instead.

If you decide to keep the chick, you could keep it in a box with a light source (lamp with light bulb 40 - 60 watt) for warmth. IF it's feathered out, you probably don't need the heat source but keep it indoors where it's warmer.

It's possible the legs are splayed ( spread out to the sides of it) or if it's got CTP (curly toe paralysis) both are treatable but sooner the better. This site explains splayed legs and other leg issues. IF it's CTP it's a vitamin deficiency (Riboflavin) so you can add some boiled egg yolk to it's feed or feed plain, baby PolyVisol without the iron, tuna ...

http://www.poultrypedia.com/poultry-podiatry
http://www.poultrydvm.com/condition/curly-toed-paralysis

 

[Pierre duck drake]

Please send a pic! Did he end up living?