Chukar Chick Questions

[MVchickens]

Hi there, I just received an order of 105 Chukar Partridge Chicks from McMurray Hatchery. I have a few questions about them.

First off, what is an acceptable loss during shipping? I lost about 10 and several more are looking week. Is it justifiable to call the hatchery or is that excepted? I have raised ducks and chickens without any losses so this game bird thing is kind of new to me.

Second, why do they all pile up? I thought it would be because they are cold but they are not. The brooder temp under the light is 95 degrees and the outer edges 85-90 but they still pile under the light. Why is that?

A speedy response would be great. Thanks!

 

[damionlake]

Well how far away from McMurray do you live? Too me that sounds like you did pretty well. Chukar chicks dont ship too well, they arent as hardy as chickens or ducklings and considering this is one of the first Chukar shipments of the year thats quite understandable that you would lose birds. I cant answer you why they pile up I just know they are quite well known for that bad habit. I think they just like to stick together, they feel safe when huddled together. Im sure someone else on here has more details about that.

 

[cva34]

Hatched 16 out of 22 ,there 4 weeks old and out of brooder.When you walk up they still pile up.Maybe its a Huddle...cva34

Well how far away from McMurray do you live? Too me that sounds like you did pretty well. Chukar chicks dont ship too well, they arent as hardy as chickens or ducklings and considering this is one of the first Chukar shipments of the year thats quite understandable that you would lose birds. I cant answer you why they pile up I just know they are quite well known for that bad habit. I think they just like to stick together, they feel safe when huddled together. Im sure someone else on here has more details about that.