Chicks burrowing

[plmbloco48]

I have one chick that is constantly burrowing into the bedding. Looks sick or injured, but as soon as I open the gate she takes off with the rest of them. Any worries or laying instinct?

 

[sourland]

It sounds as if she may be trying to 'dust bathe' in the bedding.

 

[azygous]

You need to watch to see if she's eating and drinking and pooping - the three activities that will tell you if a chick is sick or healthy. Any other behavior that deviates from what you know as normal chick behavior, taken all by itself, isn't enough to judge if a chick is sick.

Also, a sick chick won't be running around, but will stick to one spot. They usually will have droopy wings, not held close to the body, and will be nodding off.

I agree with Sourland. It sounds like "dirt bathing" behavior. Chicks will try to dirt bath in anything they can get into, including their food.

 

[plmbloco48]

Ok, I'll keep an eye on her. She runs with the others so she is active. I'll put a dust bath in the coop for them and see what transpires. Thanks to all for your help.