Odd behavior

[TimG]

I have one 5-6 day old chick who constantly opens and closes its beak. Seems to do this both while awake and sleeping. This chick is also generally lethargic, but it must be eating and drinking or it wouldn't have survived to this point. When it stands, it often stands with its feet very far apart and does not get around as steadily as the rest.

I'm sort of surprised it has survived this long -- in my experience such shows of potential sickness resolve themselves rather quickly. I'm mostly a survival of the fittest sort of chicken owner, it can be sad to watch, but if a chick isn't strong enough to make it through the first few days, I think I'm probably better off if it dies than if it survives and is a unhealthy chicken for months or years.

So, I'm not really looking for a remedy so much as just curious what might be wrong?

 

[Cindy in PA]

I got 27 bantams Sunday evening (hatched Friday) and on Tuesday I suddenly noticed that two really hadn't grown, were just about the size of when I picked them up. The one slept a lot more and kind of swayed when he stood, trying to balance. When he tried to scratch himself while laying down, he would flip over and have to right himself. I could see nothing wrong with him and he ate and drank. He passed away yesterday. Still have the other tiny one and he eats and drinks, but sleeps most of the time. This one is starting to grow wing feathers, but is about half the size of his siblings. All 25 others are full of energy. He spends much time sleeping. I don't expect much and keep checking on him. I don't know the answer to your question, but I guess it just happens. I too am waiting for the end. Good luck.

 

[TimG]

It's dead now. I really am surprised it took so many days. Still curious.

This one was found on its back a few times, not struggling really, but unable to right itself.

 

[RendonRoo]

Sounds like it just wasn't strong enough. It probably did eat and drink a little but just didn't make it .

 

[joletabey]

I am sorry you lost your baby! Sounds like she was trying hard to stay alive.
Sometimes the silent, gallant struggle animals make when they are sick just KILLS me. If only they could speak. . . . .

 

[Cindy in PA]

Sorry you lost your chick. My second runt died this afternoon too.