Mini flake pine shavings and 8week old chicks?

[rkapfen]

So my 8 week old chicks (oh I guess they’re not babies anymore have been outside full time for a bit now. Lately I’ve noticed they’re scratchinf at the pine shavings I have under their roosts and they seem to be eating them. Is this bad? Should I get larger flake shavings to discourage this? I don’t know what’s going on! They get plenty of fresh food and treats every day, they’re not going hungry or without.

 

[PirateGirl]

Do they have grit available?

 

[rkapfen]

Do they have grit available?

Yes I have grit available and they free roam so I’m sure they’re getting some from the soil as well

 

[PirateGirl]

I probably wouldn't worry too much then. Chickens seem to eat or try to eat a bit of everything. As long as they have grit I like to think they will pass it through.

 

[rosemarythyme]

It's normal. As long as they don't eat excessive amounts and have grit available they should be fine. I do use larger flake shavings but both my adults and chicks seem to like to nibble at any small bits they find.

 

[Rick&Chris]

For week old babies, do you recommend mini flake or large flake? I have grit I can put down for them, too.