One of my 2 week old BO chicks was dead in the brooder this am. Nothing appeared to be wrong with it. I'd lost a few others after I first got them but after taking out the wood chips and giving Poly-vi-sol in water for a few days everyone has been very happy, alert, etc. with no pasty butts or anything else wrong. Last night I gave them a lettuce leaf to play with, its the first time for treats. Do you think that may have caused the chickie's death?
Probably not, there is a chance he choke on a piece but that is a slim chance. Sometimes they just do not make it. did you see any injuries or anything out of place? Sorry you lost some though.
no, i don't think it is your fault, and it isn't the lettuce either. Chicks sometimes just die - there may have been some weakness. If you are providing adequate heat (they aren't huddled in a bunch), water (drown proof for chicks) and feed, and are watching young children handling them, and protecting from dogs/cats/predators, then you are doing what you need to do. So sorry, it is heartbreaking to lose a chick, but don't blame yourself!
I think I'm doing all the right things. Temp is 80-85, lots of chick starter, clean water twice a day (it's even filtered water) in those mason jar waterers; brooder is in basement room so it's safe. I was going to put wood chips down again but now I'm afraid to do that, so I change the paper every day. This is my first time with chickens, sure is more to it than I thought. I have lost 4 out of 16 BO chicks, 1 of 11 EEs, 1 EE has a crossed beak, some of the BOs apparently are something else because they have barred feathers coming in and to top it off, one chick keeps running around in circles. I'm ready to pull my hair out or maybe I'll just go out to my half finished coop and have a nice "SCREAM". This forum is sure a big help; not just the advice but the sense of humor that runs through it all. Thanks!
I'm new to this chicken raising, too. This forum is a big help. Just keep reading and asking questions. I'm sure you are doing all you can do. Keep at it and good luck with the other babies!
