how do i raise happy chicks

[drumstick diva]

If chicks are going to be fed treats they should not exceed 10% of their total diet. Chicks are like kids - feed them treats and they will turn up their nose at the nutritionally sound feed they should have.

Also if they are going to be eating meal worms, etc. they need a source of grit for digestion.

 

[4 ever Orpington]

1. they are barred rock chickens
2. oh thanks

Lots of love, handling and time.

 

[ChickNanny13]

When handling chicks, most "grab" from the top holding down the wings. I tend to "scoop" them up from under their body, feet dangling between my fingers ... their underside resting in my palm. My thinking is going from the top is like a predator swooping down.

They end up backing away but I prefer this way & they tend to relax in my hand. My hand also is what holds the mealworms (freeze dried, crumbled), eventually I have them jumping in my hand/arm. Patience & spending time is the key ... Enjoy.

 

[4 ever Orpington]

When handling chicks, most "grab" from the top holding down the wings. I tend to "scoop" them up from under their body, feet dangling between my fingers ... their underside resting in my palm. My thinking is going from the top is like a predator swooping down.

They end up backing away but I prefer this way & they tend to relax in my hand. My hand also is what holds the mealworms (freeze dried, crumbled), eventually I have them jumping in my hand/arm. Patience & spending time is the key ... Enjoy.

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Agreed!

 

[Chelsa'sChicks]

When handling chicks, most "grab" from the top holding down the wings. I tend to "scoop" them up from under their body, feet dangling between my fingers ... their underside resting in my palm. My thinking is going from the top is like a predator swooping down.

They end up backing away but I prefer this way & they tend to relax in my hand. My hand also is what holds the mealworms (freeze dried, crumbled), eventually I have them jumping in my hand/arm. Patience & spending time is the key ... Enjoy.

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Your chicks are beautiful! Thats' true the scoop works too. My chicks responded well to hand over wings so see what works best for you and your chicks

 

[ChickNanny13]

Thank you ... They're not mine I raise chicks, hatch to about 6 - 8wks for a friend that breeds & sells. That was one of last years mixed batch which was suppose to be my last but she'll be getting some BLRW chicks next month so I'll raise them & get to keep what I want.

 

[Chelsa'sChicks]

Good deal that you get to keep some! I plan to get more chicks .. I'm addicted. I have the space so why not!

 

[Teila]

Hey again Lilla I said G'Day on your intro post.

Sorry, I can't remember if I gave you a link to this previous discussion so I will do so again now as you might find it helpful:
Topic of the Week - Raising People Friendly Poultry

 

[sourland]

Chickens are prey animals, and tend to fear anything approaching from above. If you are reaching down at them from above, their instinct is to flee. The best 'taming' brooders allow for access from the side on the same level as the chicks.

 

[Plip]

The

Chickens are prey animals, and tend to fear anything approaching from above. If you are reaching down at them from above, their instinct is to flee. The best 'taming' brooders allow for access from the side on the same level as the chicks.

Hmm... That explains a lot!