how much space needed?

[pepperbasket]

Hi - 5 chicks are 8 days old - we were planning to keep them about 1 more week before taking them back to the farm. We have them in a large rubbermaid container - about 3' long x 2'wide x 2'high. Today they seem to be pecking each other and more active. Are they okay for another week in this? We're adding shavings and sand today so that will give them a little more texture to interest them. Thanks.

 

[teach1rusl]

I would always base the space issue more by their behavior than by the actual space. At less than 2 weeks old, that should be enough space for 5 chicks. But if their behaviour is telling you otherwise... Do observe to make sure whether it seems to be bullying issues, or just general pecking here and there... Give them small roosts or structures to distract them...the new texture bedding may help too.