Happy to join and in need of help

[wazzangie]

Thanks for creating such a valuable comunity. I just.acquired 25 chicks that are 3 weeks old.I have already found 4 dead in 2 days and others injured. We live in the Caribbean where temps are around 85° all year long. I still have them under a lamp and indoors, but maybe if I put them outside they will have more space and maybe leas pecking at each other. Could I put them out or is this contraindicated? For a short time during the day I place them in a corral outdoors and this still doesn't persuade them from pecking at each other. I'm thinking if I just give them the entire yard and a spave for them to hide at night this may help. Any advise?

 

[OrganicFarmWife]

Hello! The hear lamp might be too much, especially at your temps. You can free range, but they are very young and vulnerable to predation. I would keep them in a run for the time being, let them get bigger. Then if you want to freerange give it a shot. Please keep in mind though that free ranging has its risks, the biggest being predators, you could loose some birds.

 

[attimus]

How much space are you keeping 25 chickens in? Inside and out. This could be a huge factor in their aggression with each other. Put them out in a pen permanently in another week if your temps hold and they'll all be fine. Another reason the pick at each other could be a protein issue. What type of feed and how often?
Attimus

 

[trailrider330]

Welcome to the BYC flock! We are glad you joined us!

 

[Pork Pie]

How much space are you keeping 25 chickens in? Inside and out. This could be a huge factor in their aggression with each other. Put them out in a pen permanently in another week if your temps hold and they'll all be fine. Another reason the pick at each other could be a protein issue. What type of feed and how often?
Attimus

Agreed - it appears that space is a key issue. More space, some "toys" to distract them from pecking each other may also be a good idea.

Whilst its a little late, it may be better if you buy chicks in the future to consider buying slightly older chicks. I guess it differs with climate, but here in Kenya most people buy chicks at 4 weeks since thereafter they do not require additional heat sources.

Good luck!

CT

 

[N F C]

You've already received some good advice so I'll just say hello and it's nice to have you here!

 

[drumstick diva]

Welcome to the Backyard chickens flock.

 

[BantamFan4Life]

Welcome to BYC! I'm glad you joined us!