Too few chicks

[JustAFarmer00]

A few days ago, a friend gave me 4 eggs to hatch. I candled the eggs on day 7, 10, 14, and 18 and I have been closely monitoring their development. I believe 2 of the embryos quit development, because the insides of the egg seemed to move around when rotated and closer to day 18 they were not dark like the other 2. It is now day 22 and the first chick pipped and hatched just a little bit ago, but I am starting to get concerned because I know chickens prefer to be raised together. It is my understanding that chicks should be raised in groups of at least 4, would it be my best course of action to purchase a few more chicks from a local tractor supply if only the one or maybe two hatch?

 

[SummerTheAnimalGirl]

A few days ago, a friend gave me 4 eggs to hatch. I candled the eggs on day 7, 10, 14, and 18 and I have been closely monitoring their development. I believe 2 of the embryos quit development, because the insides of the egg seemed to move around when rotated and closer to day 18 they were not dark like the other 2. It is now day 22 and the first chick pipped and hatched just a little bit ago, but I am starting to get concerned because I know chickens prefer to be raised together. It is my understanding that chicks should be raised in groups of at least 4, would it be my best course of action to purchase a few more chicks from a local tractor supply if only the one or maybe two hatch?

Yes, purchasing more chicks would be the best course of action. Tho raising two chicks together is ok, one is not ok, and the more the merrier! My best wishes to you, and we always love pictures!

 

[Shabby Chic-Hens]

A few days ago, a friend gave me 4 eggs to hatch. I candled the eggs on day 7, 10, 14, and 18 and I have been closely monitoring their development. I believe 2 of the embryos quit development, because the insides of the egg seemed to move around when rotated and closer to day 18 they were not dark like the other 2. It is now day 22 and the first chick pipped and hatched just a little bit ago, but I am starting to get concerned because I know chickens prefer to be raised together. It is my understanding that chicks should be raised in groups of at least 4, would it be my best course of action to purchase a few more chicks from a local tractor supply if only the one or maybe two hatch?

If only one hatched, then that’s probably the best option

 

[JustAFarmer00]

Yes, purchasing more chicks would be the best course of action. Tho raising two chicks together is ok, one is not ok, and the more the merrier! My best wishes to you, and we always love pictures!

Noted, I don’t see why the second wouldn’t hatch, just be extra prepared. Also here are the pictures I have!!

 

[SummerTheAnimalGirl]

Noted, I don’t see why the second wouldn’t hatch, just be extra prepared. Also here are the pictures I have!!

Ooo, so adorable!! What breeds? Yes, raising two usually is just fine, but it’s best if they can go to a bigger flock when they are older (at least 3-4)

 

[Farmgirl283420]

I’ve raised two chicks together they both made it and are best friends

 

[mcdze]

i raised a single chick recently .. it was an experience .. she's a big weirdo, but loveable .. at +10weeks ive finally got her roosting in the coop, but she still follows me around when im out there and peeps like a little chick .. i 'think' its a she anyway haha .. thats a mighty hefty comb lol .. we'll see ...

 

[Tonyroo]

You can raise a single chick alone. It doesn't cripple its social behavior or health.

I've done it, you just need to keep it warm and have a hand mirror in the brooder.

 

[JustAFarmer00]

Ooo, so adorable!! What breeds? Yes, raising two usually is just fine, but it’s best if they can go to a bigger flock when they are older (at least 3-4)

They are miniaturized bantams and they will be joining a much larger flock of other silkies and types of bantams

 

[SummerTheAnimalGirl]

They are miniaturized bantams and they will be joining a much larger flock of other silkies and types of bantams

That’s awesome! Then raising two should be alright.