chicks eating pine shavings

[amaliayosa]

I removed the paper towels today uncovering the pine shavings and they all went nuts, started eating them! They are fairly large for the most part, but their are some fine pieces mixed in. I quickly put the paper towels back down.
I had laid food out on the towels for the first few days, then introduced the feeders yesterday. They went right for them, didnt seem to have any trouble.
Any tips?

Amy

 

[hypnofrogstevie]

I cant give tips but I know they are mistaking it for the food. They will eventually learn where the food is

 

[Henrietta23]

I had the same issue a few weeks back. Here is a link to that thread:

https://www.backyardchickens.com/forum/viewtopic.php?id=35718

My chicks still eat a few pieces when I put fresh shavings in the brooder. They have access to chick grit. They all seem to be healthy and growing VERY quickly! Hope this helps. I know it was scary to watch!

 

[sweetshoplady]

They explore the world with their mouths. Mine did it at first, then the next time I put in shavings, it wasn't very exciting or appetizing to them.

 

[DuckLady]

duplicate thread
https://www.backyardchickens.com/forum/viewtopic.php?id=39079