Chicks just arrived!!!!

[Carlos Spicy Chicken]

Just keep an eye out for pasty butt. Maybe give them a once over to make sure all legs look good. Those are the 2 biggest issues I have noticed.

Thank you for the info. What do I look for with the legs?

 

[Carlos Spicy Chicken]

You are using horizontal water nipples from day 1 and they are actually using them and getting water? Is that your only water source? I tried my chicks on the horizontal nipples at 2 weeks and they don’t seem strong enough yet to use them. The horizontal nipples I got from a friend so not sure what brand they are or if that matters. I also ordered some RentACoop brand horizontal nipples but haven’t tried them yet to see if there is a difference. I now keep the bucket with horizontal nipples in the brooder with a quart jar waterer to be sure they are getting enough water. When I manually push and water comes out, the chicks come running to drink but I haven’t seen them do it on their own.

The nipples that I use are Heritage Acres. The chicks can definitely get water out of them, but I am not sure it is enough either. I did add another quart waterer after I took the picture. but they are still going to both the jar and the nipples.

 

[Carlos Spicy Chicken]

I use a 2 liter soda bottle with a nipple on it. I try it out first to make sure it is fine then I take one or two chicks and show them and it is game on. I also leave it low for a day or two so when they go under it they get water, they learn quickly. I also add Apple cider vinegar with the mother to the water. That helps with pasty butt, ACV is great .

I have heard about ACV. Good call. I am going to add some to the water right now. I was told 1/3 cup to 1 quart of water. that sounds like a lot.

 

[LadyAchee]

Thank you for the info. What do I look for with the legs?

Just to make sure none have any injuries or deformities that need addressed.

 

[rosemarythyme]

I have heard about ACV. Good call. I am going to add some to the water right now. I was told 1/3 cup to 1 quart of water. that sounds like a lot.

Keep in mind ACV will eventually corrode the nipples as they're metal.

Pasty butt shouldn't be a huge issue with a heat plate. If you have any pasty butt cases they're likely due to stress from shipping and as long as you stay on top of them, should clear up in a few days.