Chicken won't use water nipple

[DanEP]

I always vent my containers just to be sure. Even a 1/16 hole will work and really doesn't let any dirt in. Day old chicks have trouble with horizontal nipples but are usually ok by day 5-6 and I much prefer them. 1 week old chicks are still pretty easy to change over, 12 week old's not so much.

 

[The Balcom Clan]

Thank you everyone for saving my chicks!!! yes, that was absolutely the issue and quick poke with a sharp knife solved it instantly! The babies are making a delightfully wet mess of their chips now that the nipple is working, which I'm more than happy to deal with over the nasty water bowl!

I'm so thankful for the BYC community!!