New chicks on the way

[PetesChicks]

OK, my 6 new chicks will be here sometime the week of 4/30. First time ever having babies, the girls we have now were all older (about 4 months) when we got them. The lady at the hardware store wasn't sure when they would arrive, but will call when they are shipped and when they get in.

I'm wondering what I will need. I'm planning on MHP, not sure if I should order the 12x15 or 12x24 size. I know it can't have the auto shutoff feature. I'm going to have them in the house for a little while, then move to a 3' x 5 1/2' brooder in the coop.

Should I go with medicated chick feed, regular chick feed, or just use the flock raiser the rest of the girls get? I know I'd have to crumble it if I use the pellets I have now. What % protein should I be looking for? I plan on giving them a clump of grass, how soon should they have that? And how soon before I can give them the occasional treat?

I know I'm forgetting a bunch of things I should be asking, but any help you can give would be great. Thanks!

 

[funnyfoshay]

i got a bunch of books at the library and read them all in one weekend- felt much more prepared after reading...although it is much more chaotic and unpredictable in real life. our first babies came last Weds. I picked up 2 at the feed store and we have 4 more coming (hopefully if shipping goes smoothly) tomorrow!!!

 

[deepbluesea]

Do you have feeders and waterers for them? Maybe some nutri-drench for when they first get there, to help with shipping stress. Exciting!

 

[PetesChicks]

Do you have feeders and waterers for them? Maybe some nutri-drench for when they first get there, to help with shipping stress. Exciting!

Yes, I have a feeder & a waterer for them. I want to order the heating pad today, just trying to decide what size I should get. I was also planning on ordering Nutri-Drench at the same time.