New babies

[medicmommy]

So we had 6 baby Dominique chicks currently about 3 weeks old. We are keeping them inside because our weather has been crazy here but they are feathering out pretty well. 4 of the chicks have grown a lot and 2 are considerably smaller. 2 days ago I noticed the larger chicks sitting on the smaller ones. This morning we woke up to find that one of the smaller chicks was dead. It's heart breaking losing these ladies and I don't want anything to happen to the other smaller chick. Should I separate the other small chick away from the bigger ones or was it just a fluke happening? My kids 8, 6, and 2 are very attached as are my husband and I. This is our first venture but I have already shed tears over the loss of our beautiful Aileen. Any help is greatly appreciated.

 

[medicmommy]

So here's a pic of my ladies and one of them trying to sit on Aileen that I took yesterday. Hopefully that will give you some insight.

 

[1muttsfan]

Do you still have a heat lamp on your chicks? at 3 weeks of age they still need around 75-80 degree temps. Piling up can be a sign that the chicks are too cold.

 

[redsoxs]

Greetings from Kansas, medicmomma, and

! Great to have you here! Good luck to you and your chicks!!

 

[drumstick diva]

yes DO separate the other tiny one before she is casualty no. 2. Give her a stuffed toy to cuddle with and be sure that she has a place that is warm in her container and an area away from heat lamp if she gets too warm.

The chicks might be too cold - they do pile up for warmth. If they are warm enough in a brooder they spread out more. If they are too hot they sprawl away from heat. In either case, she is too small to be with them at this time.

 

[Mr MKK FARMS]

Welcome to BYC!!!

Glad to have you aboard!!