Help me help this tiny “runt!”

[ByFaithFarm]

I’ve had my (first batch ever) of tiny chicks for three days now. One (a Black Cochin), is smaller than the others and has a very “bumbling” kind of walk. It hunches down instead of standing fully like the others and will just peep continuously. It doesn’t seem to be eating and drinking like the other six. Although, I do see it near the food and water dish.

Yesterday, it apparently fell in the water, because I found it reeling around the cage, soaked. We warmed and dried it, and it seemed fair. But this morning, it seems so much smaller and noisier than its mates.

Any thoughts? Should I separate it?

The one on the far left of this pic.

 

[FoodFreedomNow]

What a cutie! Have you checked to ensure that it's not pasted? Pasty butt/constipated chicks can behave as you've described (especially with the constant chirping) and getting blockages cleared is critical when they're very young. This thread may be helpful. Best of luck!

 

[ByFaithFarm]

One of these Black cochins (I have two each of four different breeds), did have a little booty matting the first day that we attempted to clear, but I will check that again.

Thanks!

 

[ByFaithFarm]

It did appear to have one “nugget” of poop stuck on, which I removed. Hopefully that helps Blossom, one of our flower themed ladies.

 

[FoodFreedomNow]

Offering probiotics may also help clear up the pasting. Best wishes for Blossom's recovery.

 

[ByFaithFarm]

Unfortunately she didn’t make it...my kids just finished a burial with tombstone. Sweet, but sad.

The other six look bouncy and bright, so hopefully an isolated problem.

Thanks for your advice!

 

[FoodFreedomNow]

Sorry to hear that she passed. Sadly, sometimes they just don't make it.