Grass/Dirt clumps in the brooder?

[dkam]

My chicks are 6 days old and inside in the brooder. I was wondering if it's okay to get clumps of grass/dirt from my backyard and toss it into the brooder.

The chicks are on a chick starter diet. Will they need grit?

Thanks!

 

[ChickFarmer]

Go ahead and give it to them but if the dirt dosn't have chick grit sized rocks then I would also give grit. Clean dirt ( no chicken poo) is probiotic and a source of trace minerals.

 

[Fierlin1182]

It'll be fine! I actually used grass clippings as bedding once for the chicks. They'll probably enjoy it if there are bugs in the dirt, and might start dusbathing.

You don't need grit unless the chicks are getting treats aside from their starter feed

 

[dkam]

Do bugs and grass count as treats? I am not feeding them grit...

I added some clover/grass and there was bugs and dirt. They enjoyed grazing on it and catching the bugs. I don't know if they need grit for this or not?

 

[ChickFarmer]

There is no reason to delay giving grit. It is a natural part of the chicks digestive system and it dosn't even have to be store bought. And yes grass can cause crop impaction.

 

[kile529]

Definitely give them a clump of dirt with grass and everything - it will keep them from getting pasty butt!!

 

[Fierlin1182]

Bugs and grass do count, I think they say that anything other than the chick starter counts.

 

[goldnchocolate]

If you have access to a child's sandbox you can use sand for grit. If you are worried about it being unsterile just bake it in your oven for 10 minutes or so.