Hatchery Chicks?!

[feather leg farms]

Our first time ordering chicks from a hatchery we only had 2 white silkies survive. What are some things I could do to help keep them healthy, like meds, lights, environment, humidity etc?

 

[SundownWaterfowl]

They do not need any medications. The only thing that you can/should give them when they arrive and for the first 2-3 days is some electrolytes and vitamins in their water.

Keep them at about 85-90 for the first week. Make sure that the bedding you use isnt slippery. You can use pine shavings. I have been brooding all of my chicks this year in wire cages. It is easier to keep clean.

 

[feather leg farms]

In our brooder we just started using this foamy stuff u put in your kitchen droor to keep things from moving. This helps the chicks from having leg deformations.

 

[elmo]

I found some chicks locally, rather than ordering from a hatchery. I discovered another chicken fancier in my area in the process (someone who is becoming a good friend), and I didn't get chicks stressed from shipping.

It's good to buy locally, whenever possible.

 

[feather leg farms]

Well we can't find buff brahma bantams or silver laced wyandottes local.

 

[cochinbantam-lover]

Quote:
How many did you start with?

 

[gardenak]

First off

from AK!

Where are you located? How long did it take to get them? I just read a horror story about someone ordering from a hatchery- an employee of the hatchery stepped right up to the plate and offered to help defray the situation. I found that most of the established hatcheries do that. Chicks are tiny and get chilled unless ordered in large numbers. I live in AK (duh) and lost a few due to shipping as well. It happens. We all feel horrible when a tiny creature dies, but it's the nature of the beast if you want something in particular as I did. There is not more you can do other than provide fresh, clean water, perhaps with electrolytes or a little sugar and a nice warm brooder. I am happy to report my remaining flock are happy, healthy chickens now.

 

[cmom]

How many chicks did you order and how far did they have to travel in time and distancefrom where you live?

All of my chicks so far have come from Ideal in Texas. I live in Florida so I thought at least they wouldn't have to go far. All Chicks arrives alive and seemingly healthy. I did loose a chick after three days from my last batch of chicks. This time I ordered from Townline Hatchery in Zeeland Michigan. The chicks shipped yesterday and I am susposed to get them tomorrow morning. I called the hatchery and the Post Office. The Post Office said I should get a call around 6am and that they get chicks in 2/3 times a week. All of my other chicks have been ordered and delivered in Oct. These are my first summertime chicks.