Entertaining chicks

[Ccort]

Hi! My chicks will be two weeks on Monday. I tried giving them some good old dirt and grass from my yard but they weren't impressed. We have hard clay rather than nice soil so I think that's why. So I am buying some for them to play in. Is this safe for them?
Also, what treats for play things can I give them at this age? I put a mirror in the brooder and they loved that. I also put something for them to roost on.

 

[nuthatched]

No, they really do not need any dirt, especially potting mix. the purpose of the dirt is to start them hunting for bugs, there's no bugs in potting mix. You can take them outside if it's not too cold though.

 

[LadiesAndJane]

I start taking my chicks out on the grass under observation (I use a large pen) at about 2 weeks of age for short periods of time. They can look for bugs and also eat some grass. Be sure to add some chick grit if you haven’t already done so.

 

[Ccort]

I start taking my chicks out on the grass under observation (I use a large pen) at about 2 weeks of age for short periods of time. They can look for bugs and also eat some grass. Be sure to add some chick grit if you haven’t already done so.

I brought some dirt in for mine. Its been rainy a lot and our ground is so mushy from it and still chilly. I'm eager to take them out!

 

[rosemarythyme]

I wouldn't be using any potting mix with additives.

Some time outside (when it's nicer and drier) would definitely provide some entertainment, as well as get them used to being without heat and being outside.