Lone Chick

[Slw]

I had a failed hatch. Only one baby hatched out of 7. Can one chick survive alone? Or do they need a group?

 

[DobieLover]

It will be much better off with a few more chicks. You may be able to find a few at one of your farm stores. You can also post your need to local FB poultry groups to see is someone has a recent hatch and could sell you some chicks.

In the meantime you can get a feather duster and a mirror to keep in the brooder with your lone chick so it doesn't feel quite so alone. I might go as far as to play chick noises for it too.

 

[theoldchick]

It needs a few buddy chicks.

 

[fldiver97]

Sorry the hatch was not more successful! Best solution is to get it a couple or more chicks for company. You already got good advice from the other posters!!!

 

[Bsmac]

Hello! Welcome to BYC! Sorry your hatch did not go as planned. As other members have mentioned your lone chick needs some friends to thrive! Best of luck!

 

[janiedoe]

Welcome to BYC! Its best if they have friends. I have raised a single and introduced her into the flock later but she tends to be a loner. I think they are always happier with a buddy or two.

 

[Folly's place]

Twice last fall we had chick disasters, with only one survivor. We found chicks available immediately at a feed store the first time, and at a hatchery the second time, both within (fairly) reasonable driving distances, and went for six chicks each time to keep our loner company. Definitely do it! In spring you'll have many choices, pick chicks about the same age, hopefully some you might want anyway, and compatible with your survivor.
All the best here, and welcome!
Mary