Baby Chicks Taking Dust Bath in Crumble!

[KWestVA]

So, I was wondering how my week-old chicks could make such a mess of their open food dish, until I caught them taking dust baths in it!

I have a solution for the food, but know I'm wondering what to provide them for dust baths. I've read several posts, and opinions seemed mixed on what material to use or avoid. I thought I might use their grit as a short-term fix - since they don't seem inclined to eat it and have been turning up their noses at the treats I've offered - but I saw one post that said pet store grit shouldn't be used, which is what I have (fine-ground shells). Why would the pet store grit be problematic?

As always, your insight is appreciated!

 

[CalgaryFarmer]

I think grit is fine provided it is the smallest size.

You should not use oyster shells.

I put largeish rocks in the food dishes so they cannot scratch and spray the crumble.

 

[Ridgerunner]

What makes dust? Dirt. What do chickens that have access to the outside world use for a dust bath? Dirt. What have feral chickens and chickens raised on small farms used for a dust bath for thousands of years? Dirt.

If you feel you need to provide a place for them to dust bathe in the brooder I suggest you fill it with dirt. That could be free dirt from your property or you can probably find a place to buy some.

 

[KWestVA]

What makes dust? Dirt. What do chickens that have access to the outside world use for a dust bath? Dirt. What have feral chickens and chickens raised on small farms used for a dust bath for thousands of years? Dirt.

If you feel you need to provide a place for them to dust bathe in the brooder I suggest you fill it with dirt. That could be free dirt from your property or you can probably find a place to buy some.

Thanks! It's been too cold and rainy where I am to bring the week-old chicks outside or dig up dirt from my property. That being said, as soon as time permits (I've had contractors onsite every day), I can get to a store to buy soil - although I understand that can be problematic as well, with potting soil (e.g.) potentially having additives that could be risky.

 

[rosemarythyme]

Thanks! It's been too cold and rainy where I am to bring the week-old chicks outside or dig up dirt from my property. That being said, as soon as time permits (I've had contractors onsite every day), I can get to a store to buy soil - although I understand that can be problematic as well, with potting soil (e.g.) potentially having additives that could be risky.

If you must buy soil (I really wouldn't bother, but if it makes you happy to provide it...) opt for the cheapest, plainest top soil, or 100% peat moss to avoid any additives.

Or dig up a shovel of dirt, set it in a tray or spread it over a tarp in the garage to dry off a bit, then give it to the chicks. Doesn't have to be bone dry, just not too wet/damp.

 

[KWestVA]

If you must buy soil (I really wouldn't bother, but if it makes you happy to provide it...) opt for the cheapest, plainest top soil, or 100% peat moss to avoid any additives.

Or dig up a shovel of dirt, set it in a tray or spread it over a tarp in the garage to dry off a bit, then give it to the chicks. Doesn't have to be bone dry, just not too wet/damp.

Good idea - thanks!!