Baby chicks fur matted and crunchy

[rburrows]

We purchased 6 chicks and 4 ducklings a week ago at our local TSC. We've raised baby chicks before but not ducks. We kept them in the same bin and found the ducks were making a huge mess with the water so we moved them into their own home today. However, while they were with the chicks, they got them wet and the chicks fur has not been the same since. It is now hard and crunchy. We just raised the heat lamp up today but the chicks don't look good. Has this happened to anyone else and will they be ok? Is there anything we can do to help them? The chick in the 2nd picture is in the worst shape. She struggles to keep her balance from time to time. I'm guessing it's because she has limited use of her wings. I'm having big guilt thinking we have done something wrong and caused this. The last time we raised chicks we did not have ducks and did not run into this.

 

[Folly's place]

Welcome! Ducklings make a mess with their water, and should be raised separately. Wet chilled chicks are in big trouble! Also, what's the mill date on your chick starter? It needs to be very fresh, or vitamin deficiencies can happen. Can you clean those chicks and blow dry them (can't be further chilled!)? A warm dry brooder is essential. Maybe some electrolytes added? Nutridrench? I hope things improve for your chicks soon. Mary

 

[rburrows]

Thank you! We separated them from the chicks and they have shown great improvement!