First Few Days

[chieflarsen]

We are all set to receive our first chicks; the brooder is built, feeders, waterers and heat lamp are all in place, and the floor is covered in pine shavings. I've been reading some posts, however, about covering the pine shavings with newspaper for the first 2-3 days and was wondering how necessary that is. If it contributes to the health of the birds, I can certainly put some paper on top of the shavings, but I'm uncertain as to how beneficial this practice is.

 

[Achio]

Congrats on the chicks!!

When I've raised chicks, I haven't really put down newspaper. (And the chicks seemed fine)

But, quote from website on raising chicks,

Bedding: Pine shavings in general are the best materials, but in the first week or so, we like newspapers with a layer of paper towels on top (because the chicks will try eating the pine shavings).
- http://www.hansenwoodlandfarm.com/raising-chickens-checklist.html

So, I guess it wouldn't hurt. Hope that helped.