Help please

[lovemusic228]

Hey so I have never owned chickens and I know nothing of them. I rescued this little baby one from Oxnard it was just roaming around and I don't know the sex, the breed or the age or how to take care of it. I got it some chicken food and water and a soft place to sleep but I don't know if they need any heat or anything.

 

[lalaland]

your little chick does need heat.
You can use a heat lamp, or you can use a heating pad (https://www.backyardchickens.com/t/956958/mama-heating-pad-in-the-brooder-picture-heavy-update)

the chick will want it warm (around 85 at a week old, dropping 5 degrees each week). But, chick will need to be able to get into the heat, and out of the heat - so under the lamp or heating pad to warm up, and out to eat, drink, play.

feed and water available 24/7 (but chickens don't eat in the dark)

chicks have a tendency to drown easily in water, so if you are not using a special chick waterer, make sure the container is small, and very shallow. If necessary, put marbles or stones in the water to keep it shallow. a saucer can work for this, or even a jar lid for a new chick.

chickens are social and really need flockmates. You might want to get more chicks, or find someone who has chickens who will take this one.

Best of luck and welcome to byc.

 

[lovemusic228]

I just don't actually know how old she is. I found her on the street and she walked into my aunts house. She doesn't have tail or back feathers but she could have been attacked.

 

[lovemusic228]

 

[lalaland]

hmm, she looks like a juvenile, and is feathered enough that she doesn't need heat.

makes it easier to care for her - feed, water, greens (dandelion, clover, spinach, etc) .