Lost 2 chicks last night.

[LoneCowboy]

I'm so upset. I went out to feed the babies today and found a dead chick just outside the hover brooder. I was sick. I then lifted the hover and found another chick. Probably smoothered to death. I know you can expect something like 5% loss on baby chicks, but it still doesn't make it easier.

I had to leave for an all day class right after that, so I worried all day long about them. I added an addtional heat source before I left. I came home and they are playing around having a great time. But the waterers had spilled and got all the bedding wet. I had to dig out the wet shavings.

I don't remember having this much trouble the first time I brooded. But then I didn't have to use a hover since it was warmer then.

I'm so worried I'll lose more. Can't think of anything else I can do to protect them though. I'm doing all I can now.

 

[dacasodivine]

So sorry you lost them.

 

[Berynn]

I use paper towels for the first few days, and keep them in my living room where its warm. I really don't like losing chicks especially cause my daughter doesn't take it well. I think that I am going to have to keep them from her until I feel that they are strong.