hello and help

[bwinn01]

Hi, I'm new to keeping chickens. I live in Georgia, out in the country. I bought 6 baby chicks, they are currently living in a crate in my studio until old enough to move outside. The chicks seem to be doing great, very active, about 1 month old. Some get on the pole that I provided to roost. I clean the crate every other day. I give them fresh food and water twice a day, or more. My first concern is Big Bertha. She is easily twice the size of the others but doesn't yet have tail feathers, all the others do. Her feathers also are not as full as the others, her rear end looks swolen and reddish. Otherwise she eats well, drinks water, runs around, flaps her wings. Should I be concerned?

 

[Marie1234]

If you want to post a pic of Bertha it will help. Do you know what breeds your chicks are? Is it possible that bertha is a meat bird rather than a layer?

 

[Backyard Hencam]

from California. Sounds you might have meat breed. Can you post a picture in the section on "Breeds". That may answer your question. Good luck!

 

[3goodeggs]

Welcome to BYC!

I know nothing, but would like to see a picture of Bertha!
I had a runty. micro chick is just now laying a year later.
Good luck finding out!

 

[michelle1017]

Post a pic of Bertha and I am sure someone here can help you out!

 

[Cindiloohoo]

 

[bigstack]

Have you seen the others pecking at her? They may be pulling her feathers out! Some thing you may wanna watch for.

Good Luck and God Bless!

P.s. Welcome to BYC!!!!!

 

[b.hromada]

and

from S. Florida! Glad you joined us!

 

[4-H chicken mom]

from Ohio