Picking up our first chicks this week. Must have things?

[MamaBearWooten]

The Easter bunny gifted our boys new chicks for Easter. We will be picking up day old ones this week for them. What all would you suggest we have for them?

Grandpa ordered them a coop from our local Amish breeder and it will be delivered next week for when they are old enough. We will be building a fully enclosed fencing for itty keep them safe from predators and when we aren’t letting them free range.

On my list to grab when I pick them up is...
Bedding
Heat lamp + bulb
Food
Water and feed dishes

We have a really large storage tote that we will be using to house them in until they are feather and can go into their coop.

Is there anything else I should get for them immediately or in the coming weeks?

 

[Dr.GarryTTucker]

As for immediate, no that’s about it.those are the basics till they get a couple weeks.

 

[AppleMomma65]

I can tell you (from my first and recent personal experience) the "brooder" I had - a 2x3' wire dog kennel - was quickly too small for them after about 2 weeks. While I have 12 birds, you may want to have a second "brooder" that you can put together to move them in to as regardless of how many you have, they will start flying and running around at about that 2nd week mark. I'd suggest you also have on hand electrolytes, probiotic and/or Rooster Booster (R) with probiotics and vitamins (avail. at a farm/feed store). These are helpful in case you find yourself with diarrhea or something else. Collect newspaper to put under the pine shavings. Decide whether you want medicated or non medicated chick starter/feed (for Coccidiosis). A broom to clean up all of the pine shavings from the floor. Keep you camera handy - they are so fun to watch as they grow up, you'll want to document it! ENJOY!!!

 

[MountainWoman73]

You've got everything you need. They may like some grit, but don't buy it. Have your boys go dig them some dirt and worms.