We just brought home our 4 little ones. They are 3 or 4 days old. How do I know if they have enogh space in the brooder we set up? We put the water on one side and the food on the other side is this ok or do they need to be together? Also I have read a ton of information from this site and it has been so extremely helpful. I would love any advice you can share. 1. How do i know they have enough room? 2. When can I start giving them treats and how do I give them the grit?
Hi and welcome to BYC and congrats on your new chicks. A brooder needs to be sufficiently large to provide for a reduction in temperature from your heat source, to ambient temperature. This is equally important as the physical space that the chicks have (and remember, they will grow very quickly). Personally, I do not give treats to chicks. Chick starter feed provides all the necessary nutrients for healthy growth and giving treats can upset that balance. Chicks on starter feed do not need grit, but if you are to feed them treats, then it is necessary. This link should help - https://www.backyardchickens.com/t/891051/the-science-of-feeding-grit-to-poultry This link may also help - https://www.backyardchickens.com/a/raising-your-baby-chicks You can also ask your questions on this forum - https://www.backyardchickens.com/f/11/raising-baby-chicks Best wishes CT
G’Day from down under Newbe owner Welcome! Sorry, I only have experience with hatches under a broody hen but Ken has given you some good starting points and advice so I will just wish you and your little ones all the best. I hope you enjoy being a BYC member. There are lots of friendly and very helpful folks here so not only is it overflowing with useful information it is also a great place to make friends and have some fun. Unlike non chicken loving friends, family and colleagues, BYC’ers never tire of stories or pictures that feature our feathered and non feathered friends
Greetings from Kansas and ! Pleased you joined us! CTKen did indeed gave you some great links so I'll just say best wishes and thanks for joining BYC!
