I need some help because I seem to know nothing about baby chicks. Like what do I use for bedding on the ground? or what do I use for chick food? Tell me if I need anything more in my list below Light Bulb feeder Waterer Box what about grit how much do I need and is it neccesary? they also have clam shell I am not sure. thanks I also don't have quick chick or any supplement like that, niether do the stores will I be ok? Or is there a substitute?
First you need to calm down. Your chicks will be find you have all the necessary things for good chick raising. I use pine straw. Dont use newspaper because the chicks cant walk on a slippery surface. Have a great time with your new chicks [soon to be]
Experts can sex day old if they do not have sex link traits other than that you have wait for secondary characteristics to tell you what they are. Clean water and chick starter is all you need. There is no need for grit at this stage. They don't need treats and extras until after 4 weeks old. They don't need oyster or clam shell either. That is for laying hens and too much calcium in chicks can cause kidney problems. Calm down and have fun with your new chicks.
The temp in the brooder needs to be 90-95 degrees for the first week, and 5 degrees lower each week until it gets to around 70. Make sure the light is securely attached or hung so it can't fall and start a fire, and so you can adjust its distance from the chicks. Pine shavings, NOT cedar, covered by paper towels for good footing for the first few days, are a good bedding. I used an old sheet cut to fit my brooder so I can wash it and reuse it. You can find all the info you need in the "raising young chicks" part of the "How To" heading in the "Learning Center" at the very top of the screen here. Have fun with your new chicks! They are such a hoot!
Tanks for asking all the questions I was wondering on a few myself. At what age can they have treats and if they have treats do they need grit?At what age can the baby chicks go outside and how warm should it be?
