Today begins my life with chickens! I ordered 8 Black Australorps from mypetchicken, and all 8 made it to me seemingly healthy and robust. I feel like a first-time mom, hoping that I am doing everything right. They took to water and food quickly, but my main concern is with the brooder temperature. I need to get a thermometer that is easier to read. I'm trying to keep it around 95 for this first week. When I checked on them the first time, to give them fresh water, they went to a corner and huddled. At first I thought that they were hot, but I think they were cowering from me 'cause I raised the heat lamp and the next time I went in (just a few minutes later) they were grouped right below the lamp in a small heap. Up I went on the ladder to lower the lamp back to where it was; soon after they went back to eating and drinking.
What I found very interesting is how they "follow the leader." One chick decides to lay down for a spell, and they all do (except for one who seemed to watch guard). The guard chick sorta half lays down and then decides to get a drink of water, and the other 7 follow suit. It was fun to watch them take a nap. They are shaped just like the "Peeps" marshmallows!
sleep well, my babies. amanda
What I found very interesting is how they "follow the leader." One chick decides to lay down for a spell, and they all do (except for one who seemed to watch guard). The guard chick sorta half lays down and then decides to get a drink of water, and the other 7 follow suit. It was fun to watch them take a nap. They are shaped just like the "Peeps" marshmallows!
sleep well, my babies. amanda
