twitching chicks

[goldwing1832]

We had two chicks hatch yesterday, but they are not standing up. They just lie down and twitch there legs and wings when talked to. It looks like they are trying to get up, but just can't. It has been 8 hrs now since they have hatched. Any ideas

We had four others hatch with no problems

 

[olebiddy]

are their legs spraddling out? If they are, wrap their legs with vet wrap to help their legs stay under them until the muscles get strong enough. This works for me when I have baby chicks that can't stand. Just makde sure you don't wrap too tightly. My chicks are usually ok in a couple days and I can take the vet wrap off. Good luck!

 

[goldwing1832]

It almost looks like they are brain damaged, they are still really sleepy and not pruning.

 

[cmfarm]

Maybe they are just really tired? Did they have a hard time hatching?

 

[goldwing1832]

Yes they did have a hard time, I was thinking the same thing. They are drinking water from a dropper, and chirping but they are really sleepy. There was blood still in the shell when they hatched, so I'm thinking they just need to rest and build the blood back up. Thanks for the comment, it helps to assure me I'm on the right track!