New chickens eating pine shavings?

[BlossomSilkies]

It looked like when I put my new kids in the coop today, they were eating the pine bedding I have on the floor of their coop. If they were, will it hurt them?

 

[Ga Chicken Mom]

Don't know if shavings will do damage. I have learned on BYC that you should put some covering over the shavings for a day or two so the chicks learn to eat their starter/grower food. Paper towels work well for me as I get only 15 chicks at a time. Also don't use newspaper it is too slippery and the chicks can hurt their legs.

 

[dominiquePL]

I think they'll be fine. Mine were eating them at first but soon got the idea it's not food really. So don't worry

 

[BlossomSilkies]

Yes, actually i think they have already figured it out. Thank you!