Is this a runt or am I just worrying?

[Patchworkjo]

Hello

I have a broody that succesfully hatched two mixed bantams. Both seem really fit and well and eating and drinking (and pooing) just fine. My worry is one is only just over half the size of the other, and less than a quarter as feathered. I’m not sure if this is due to them being different mixes, or If one needs a hand to catch up? In the pictures below it is the brown chick I am worried about and they are 16 days old in the photos. Apologies for not getting perfect pics. It is difficult with a protective Mama hen around!

If there is anything I need to do please let me know. Thank you

 

[cluckadoodledoo13]

I’m not sure but the different breeding could be the culprit? If they are eating and drinking fine then i wouldn’t worry but hopefully someone else’s opinion will help.

 

[cluckadoodledoo13]

I have 3 and my black mixed chick feathered up much faster than my other 2 hybrids. I think it just depends on the bird.

 

[Patchworkjo]

I have 3 and my black mixed chick feathered up much faster than my other 2 hybrids. I think it just depends on the bird.

Thank you

 

[Patchworkjo]

Hello. I’m still worried about “little brown”. He/she seems well but isn’t growing (no change in size but some patchy feathering)- under half the size of their brother/sister hatched on the same day. Different mixes but still...... updated images below. Can they have human probiotics and will this help if it is a good absorption issue? Will nutri drench help? They have Vit boost + In their water. Please let me know if I need to do something. They are on day 25 today.

 

[cluckadoodledoo13]

Hello. I’m still worried about “little brown”. He/she seems well but isn’t growing (no change in size but some patchy feathering)- under half the size of their brother/sister hatched on the same day. Different mixes but still...... updated images below. Can they have human probiotics and will this help if it is a good absorption issue? Will nutri drench help? They have Vit boost + In their water. Please let me know if I need to do something. They are on day 25 today.

That is strange, i’ve never had this happen so don’t know what you could do? You could try them on foods high in vitamins and things like that but i’m not sure. Sorry i’m no help, hopefully someone knows what to do!

 

[Patchworkjo]

I have been adding mealworms for protein and Little Brown loves them and green leaves if that gives anyone a clue. Much less brave than his/her brother/sister but has the air of a thinker! Watches carefully before rushing in

 

[cluckadoodledoo13]

I have been adding mealworms for protein and Little Brown loves them and green leaves if that gives anyone a clue. Much less brave than his/her brother/sister but has the air of a thinker! Watches carefully before rushing in

That sounds good! Maybe he/she’s a slow developer? I’m not sure. They sure are funny little creatures.

 

[cluckadoodledoo13]

I’ve just done a small amount of research and roosters (especially welsummers though not sure what breed yours is) do take much lonelier to feather out so maybe this is the case? If it’s getting plenty of protein and nutrients then i think it’s otherwise healthy.

 

[Patchworkjo]

Thank you. I have always assumed it is two boys so as to avoid disappointment! Anything else is a pleasant surprise. Better to worry about chicks where I can do something than a virus where I can’t..........