do chicks molt?

[21hens-incharge]

I think it comes down to the feed then. I would most likely suspect the yogurt. They do not need it nor are they designed to digest it. I would remove it and only use small amounts if treating a hen with vent gleet. Also the yogurt will go rancid very quickly in a heated brooder.

What temp is the brooder at? I have been moving my light up and away and I have chicks the same age. My brooder is running at about 75 on the cool end and 80 under the light. I cannot get the cool end any cooler since they are in my office to keep them safe from the K9's that think they look yummy.

I have to run for a while I will check back later.

 

[DCortez]

Have it around 90 this week, heard the rule was 95 to start and subtract 5 each week. I keep their food and water on the opposite side of the light.

Will cut out the yogurt to see if that helps.

 

[21hens-incharge]

You are correct about the rule. I have been watching mine as to where they are sleeping and what activities they are doing and mine are avoiding under the light.
I did have some that came in with pasty butt and reducing the heat has helped that.

Mine have been sleeping today in a ring away from directly under the light. It is interesting how they pic the right heat for what they need. I even have 3 asleep right now in the cooler end of the brooder.

I am feeding the same chick starter as you are and have used it in the past with good results so I do not think that is it. When you buy your next bag do check the date on it since I know of some stores in my area that seem to always have older stock and I want the freshest I can get.

 

[DCortez]

Good point on the feed, didn't do it like I would with milk, etc..

 

[21hens-incharge]

I have never raised black star chickens so I do not know if this is actually something that happens with that breed either.