Best way to cull a chick?

[Hollyoak Ranch]

Thanks so much for the advice. (And sorry for the repeat thread. I did do a search for the subject but wasn't finding it. Must not have done something right.) This is all part of breeding animals. The good and bad. Can't have one without the other occasionally. I guess I'm just going to have to put on my big girl panties and get the job done. I like the ether trick because it's bloodless. Funny how it doesn't bother me at all to tend to injuries or even watch the vet do surgeries. But when it comes to killing, I get all lily livered.

Thanks again folks. You're a big help.

Susan

 

[chevgrl]

Quote:
There is a much more humane way I've heard of by placing a chick in a container with a smaller container of baking soda and the baking soda uses up all the oxygen so basically the chik falls asleep...you'll have to do a search for it!

 

[aktreewoman]

My father is a wildlife biologist and was describing thumbing to me as an easy method of releasing small animals. Thats what he did when my hampster was paralyzed after it had been bitten by a dog. Condolences.

 

[shuizar209]

I had to dispatch 2 chicks today. Prolasped vent. I had my father in law do one first and he just grabbed the head between 2 fingers and pulled the head right off. He said he did that when he used to raise chickens. I did the second one. It was really easy and quick. Just a warning though there where a little blood. No more than a few drops.

 

[Hollyoak Ranch]

Thank you to everyone for responding. I really appreciate it!

I opted for the ether (starting fluid) method. I guess I'm just a weenie, but I didn't want to snip or pull the poor thing. I know it's quick and humane, but I wanted another way for MY sake. Since then, I had to do one more chick from a later hatch as well.

I took a quart jar, folded a paper towel and put in it, then sprayed the starting fluid on the towel and closed it up. I got the chick and wrapped it in a warm towel, (I know, sappy - but I need for them to go in comfort) and placed it in the jar and screwed the lid on tight. They just go to sleep and soon stop breathing. I was able to sleep.

Thanks again folks!

Susan
Grass Valley, CA

 

[ginger c.]

Quote:
Sorry.

 

[shuizar209]

Quote:
My father in law just pulls the head right off. Quick and simple. Sorry that was very graphic.

 

[Balbinka]

I am so sorry that you had to do that!

Unless I was in a pinch or it was an absolute emergency, I am the type who would take it to the vet and have it euthanized.
Yes, I am quite girly- but I have chickens and a goose for pets rather than a money, show, or otherwise profitable endeavor.

Rest in Peace baby chick!

 

[Katydid2011]

Quote:
I'm so glad that you posted this thread. I needed to know about the starter fluid, albeit I hope I never have to use it. (I can't even imagine culling by sniping or pulling.) As for the warm towel, it was a kindness. Bless you for that.

 

[kimntep]

This is the first time I even thought about the possibility of having to cull a baby and I'm quite sure that even hubs wouldn't pull or cut it's little head off. I appreciate learning about the starter fluid method. I'm so sorry for anyone that has to go thru this, but with so many ways to lose one (disease, predators, etc.), I'm getting better at dealing with the tough stuff. Thanks, all!