Chicks act like they are itching.

[AmyD26]

I am a total newbie when it comes to chicks. I was sort of thrown into a situation where I have to care for them, and am trying my very best but I really do lack knowledge when it comes to these things.

So, I have noticed that my chicks (about a week old) have been plucking at themselves, and each other at times (not violently). Is this common, or should I be concerned?

 

[baldie]

That depends. They do pick themselves with their beaks it almost looks like they are cleaning themselves. They all do that. Check for bugs. Look near the vent and under the wing area.

 

[Jenski]

New feathers are ITCHY!!!

They will pick at themselves for oh, let's see, the next 8 weeks or so, LOL! You might just take a quick look for creepy crawlies, but chances are they are just addressing their new feathers.

As the feathers come in, they will have a whitish coating on the shaft, which the birds will pick off as the feather develops. The feather will then unfurl and grow some more.

Hope that helps. Enjoy your chicks!