Runt of the flock

[six chicks]

I'm a new member so bear with me.
We started a flock that is now about 8 to 10 weeks old. All look good except one,we named "little bit" She is about half the size of the others and not as active. Also she has her head tucked to the body most of the time. Kinda hunched down. Also her feathers are not all in like the others. Still has some fuzzy down.
Should we be doing anything or just wait it out?
Thanks ,
Pawpa

 

[CMV]

Unfortunately, it doesn't look good for your Little Bit. Some chicks have what is classified as failure to thrive. It starts off with them seeming to sleep a bit more than the others and overall less activity than their peers. Then you start to see a size disparity, followed by poor feathering. This is usually because there is some hidden defect or problem incompatible with life. These chicks often die despite all you do to save them.

I would make sure that Little Bit is getting access to feed and water. Maybe set up a couple of feed stations in the space where they currently are to ensure that s/he is not getting bullied away from the resources. I would also add some vitamins to their water. It can't hurt and maybe will help her to build up some resistance to whatever is ailing her.

Do they have access to to the ground? And are they on medicated feed? I doubt they have cocci, but if they are on the ground that is always a possibility. A small, weak chick would be more prone to the effects of cocci than its larger, heartier peers.

 

[six chicks]

Thanks for the quick response!
Little bit gets access to 2 feeders and 2 water stations and is ,on medicated food. They have access to the ground and are always scratching and playing in the dirt. I'll try the vitamins.
It's great to have this site, we have learned so much already. Love your avatar!

 

[six chicks]

Little bit is no longer with us. She died as predicted.
What draw's us to the weak?

 

[CountryKitty]

We have an instinct to nurture the helpless--thnk of how helpless human infants are for the first year of life. It's not a bad thing, just a bit painful at times.

 

[CMV]

Sorry for your loss.

 

[six chicks]

Loss another one yesterday! Looks like the same thing: lissless, weak, smaller than the rest. They are about 8wks old.
We found this one laying down flat. Died in my hand.
Should we be taking the sick ones to a vet for testing, in case of some diease?
Pawpa

 

[CMV]

It can't hurt.

 

[7L Farm]

When I have a bird die I always cut it open & look for worms are anything out of the ordinary. Certainly, take the carcass to be examined at least you'll find out whats going on & it could help protect the rest of your flock. It always hurts to loose them & you always feel like its your fault. It happens its part of getting rid of the weak. I hatch alot & see them die or have to put some down here & there & I really hate that part but its usually for the better. I have saved a few along the way. Good Luck & hope the rest will flourish .

 

[six chicks]

Thanks so much for the response. This is such a great resource.
The rest of the girls are looking frisky and in good health. We will keep a close watch for signs of trouble.
Cheers,
Papaw