Beak trimming question and others

[jurisdobes]

I just have a few questions. We received our Black Star Pullets on May 21st. They came from McMurrey Hatchery, with their beaks trimmed. They seem to be growing back but do not look completely normal. Does anyone know how long it takes to grow back or will it ever completely? Also I have read a lot of posts about mites, sick chickens....Do mites make them sick or do you routinely just check them. Ours seem very healthy and are laying 3 eggs every day and have been since they were 18 weeks old. Is there somewhere one can read symptoms and signs of sickness?
Also and update on our raccoon promblem....Have not caught any in the traps and the girls are still safe. New coop plans in the works and the hot wire seems to be working.

 

[Sillystunt]

Are they de beaked??? Not sure, i thought they don't grow back.

Mites will suck the blood from your chickens and kill them over time. You can see them on them and some come out at night. I use DE dustings to prevent and sevin dust to treat. You shpuld always look over your chickens for mites and lice(clumps of eggs near vent and legs)

 

[keljonma]

Quote:
Get yourself a copy of Gail Damerow's Guide to Chicken Health Handbook. It is published by Storey. I got my copy at Barnes and Noble or Borders, and Tractor Supply carries it to.