Teaching Chicks???

[JennH07]

I have 8 chicks that are almost completely feathered out, not sure how old they are. I have had them outside twice now for a couple of hours at a time. The funny thing is, is that they don't seem to know what to do, they huddle and move around in a group but don't scratch or really explore. I put them out in a area using a toddler fence. Will I need to somehow show them how to range for food or will they eventually pick this up on their own?

 

[HEChicken]

They'll get it on their own. At this age they should be able to spend most of the day outside (I've had mine outside during the day since they were 2 1/2 weeks old). Since yours are older for their first explore, it may take them a little longer to pick it up but they will.

 

[gryeyes]

It is surprising how much they do without having momma chickens show them The Chicken Way.

One chicken trait is to be very hesitant about anything new. They might not like a sure-fire treat the first time. Until one gets brave enough to try 'em, and then it will be a free for all as the others join in.

Patience. Before too long, you'll have chicks doing the Scratch Dance, taking dust baths, stealing treats from each other, jumping onto things to be higher than others, chest bumping for seniority, etc.

 

[tuesdays chicks]

What temperature is it outside sounds to me like they are cold or scared

 

[JennH07]

The temp the couple of times I've had them out had been in the low 70's. The heat lamp that i use in the house is pretty much to high to be of any use anymore, and the house temp is about 69 - 70 degrees, and they don't huddle now so I figured that they would be ok outside.