panting? nervous? new chicks

[chicks47]

Hi,
I just brought home 9 new chicks. They are a week old. We took them from a friend who hatched them for a science project. This is our second time having new chicks in the house.
My concern right now may be nothing. But, they are huddled together for the most part. The thermometer reads 89 degrees. And they seem to be breathing fast, panting? I gave them food and water. Introduced a couple to the water. I have not seen any go and drink yet.
Could they just be upset and nervous from the move?

They are in a small box. We have a new home being built for them and they should have much more space tomorrow. But there is room away from the lamp if they are hot, yet they tend to be sticking together more than not.

I am not sure of all their breeds yet, possible Welsummers, RIR, Golden Comet....
I just want to make sure they will be okay through the night.

If anyone is up and reading this your opinion will help ease my worries or get me working on a resolution.

They have only been settled in now for about an hour, so the lamp light has leveled out etc.

Thanks

 

[Fred's Hens]

Panting, while holding out wings, is usually a sign of over heating, something that is easy to do when the chicks are kept in a small brooder. Chicks need lots and lots of space. They use that space to move themselves away from the heat. They don't actually like to be hot all the time. They like cool places to go and then return to warmth, as they need to.

I'd suggest watching awhile. Don't trust a thermometer. I know that's heresy, but the truth is this. The chicks themselves are the best thermometer. If they are cold? They'll pile up and cheep. If they're hot, they pant and hold their wings away from their bodies.

For tonight, try raising the light up a foot to lessen it's impact. Note any change in their behavior.

 

[fried green eggs]

Congrats on the new fuzzy butts! I would raise the heat lamp a couple inches. Normally they will sleep together but, breathing heavy or panting maybe they are still too warm but also scared so staying grouped up. I would also dip each chicks beek in water again just to make sure.

 

[Fred's Hens]

I re-read your post and see that you indeed have cool spots for them to go. Great.
Give them a little time to adjust. They'll likely be fine.

 

[chicks47]

Thanks... I checked their temp again before going to bed and did raise the light a touch. They were all good and happy looking this morning, drinking, eating, chirping away. New mom worries last night I guess. It has been a while.