Brooder Enrichment

[peachRN]

What are we adding to our brooders for the babies to play with? So far I tossed a rather large stick from our yard in there, and a little roost for them to play with. I'm toying with tossing a chunk of sod from their outdoor run in with them soon. They're just over 2 weeks old.

 

[Wyorp Rock]

A chunk of sod is a great idea.

I usually provide a shallow pan of dirt along with sod so they can take a dust bath. If indoors, do be aware, this will create more dust than usual (chicks are already dusty LOL).

 

[Perris]

I second that; a sod of your soil is the best thing you could provide for them. Now. Don't wait. It will prime their immune systems to the bugs in the soil, provide some nutrients, and let them practice scratching and foraging (which incidentally provides exercise as well as being a boredom buster).

 

[Newbie102]

I hung a jingle bell, and they also really like a small hand mirror from the Dollar Store. After moving them into the coop I hung the mirror up and stuck their baby perch in front of it and they were all trying to look at themselves, lol.

 

[peachRN]

I hung a jingle bell, and they also really like a small hand mirror from the Dollar Store. After moving them into the coop I hung the mirror up and stuck their baby perch in front of it and they were all trying to look at themselves, lol.

That's an awesome idea! I still have their baby perch, I might have to do this.

 

[thecatumbrella]

My chicks get an oxo non-slip spice rack to climb on, a perch, some overturned colorful baby cups, and a cubby to run and hide in. Of course, their favorite toy is an empty water bottle. Lots of plastic, but it's easy to clean and keeps them happy!