switching waterer

[guitargrl]

I have 6 day old silkie chicks. I bought a rabbit water bottle and have been using that, but my mother in law said to go to a normal small bell waterer. I bought one today, but they totally ignore it. I dipped their beaks, but they still won't use it. Has anyone else had experience transitioning different types of waterers?

 

[countrygirl86]

I switched my chicks from the regular style waterer to nipple water system. I took away the old water so all they had was the new system, put some of their favorite treats on top of the pipe so they had to peck at the nipples. Once one chick figured it out the rest picked it up very quickly. They learn by watching each other or at least copy each other. I would say take away the old water and put the new one in its place or close to it. They will figure it out.