Thanks so much. I'm just amazed the eggs hatched in the incubator. Total cute overload!
Thank you regarding the response. I know they are a bit more vunerable and the mortality rate is high among chicks. I envisioned extending a shed previously used by the goats. Not sure what size wire. I have 1//4 inch covering shavings in the tub which is working great to keep shavings out of the water and food. Had to also cover the top as they are flying out. How high would you make the run? 10-12 feet? And how long for the four birds! The two males and female are free ranging on the farm and would be sleeping almost above them in a large tree fort about thirty feet up. So they would be near relatives. Ha ha. Also I hear sand is easier to clean. And a large enough door to walk into for cleaning. Then how long in captivity? I'm thinking at least six months. Thanks in advance for any help. And where is sticky note?
Thank you for this great response. Don't be so hard on yourself regarding expectations and hatching. I was totally surprised when I had some pipping going on as I was uncertain how long the female (sitting on the ravine) had been out there sitting. The two males and female free range and occassionally I don't see them for a couple days. It's a big place here and lot's of dirt and excation going on. So when we got the eggs I set the timer for 21 days thinking Mom had been on them for 7. Low and behold a week later I had a pip and then a peep. Out of five eggs, four hatched. They are currently in my walk-in bathroom shower. They are little escape artists. Once I moved them into the bathroom (where it was warmer) and put the heat lamp closer, they seemed to collaspe in exhaustion. Stretched out and lounging under the heat lamp. Honestly they all looked dead. But they were soaking in the heat. And if you take them out( advise for socialization and exercise) be careful! They will follow you everywhere, get under foot, and can get hurt. In fact Friday all four were out and I opened the frig and a full unopened bottle of Kifer fell out and hit Fiona! I was devastated and heartbroken. She seemed dazed and kept closing her eyes and she couldnt keep her head up. I sat with her and sobbed and breathed life into her little beak with the help of the Holy fellow above and around us. I had a schedued cardiology appointment and left her with a friend who kept close tabs on her on her bed. When I got home she was fine!!!!Jesus saved her. Thank you for all of your recommendations regarding the housing situation. Much needed advise!!! And remember, You will do fine!! I liked the idea of 1/4 inch wire covering shavings in the tub. The shavings wont get in the water or food. But they do grow fast. So be ready. Thanks Again!
