Umbilical Cord?

[emscheid]

We just got baby chicks yesterday, from Tractor Supply. This was the very first day they were carrying them, so they are probably just a few days old. Anyway, I noticed yesterday that one of them has something that looks like a very thin piece of string and its a tan color. I am guessing it's the umbilical cord? It's still there today. Should I do anything about it or just leave it? Wasn't sure if it got stepped on or pulled by another chick, if that could hurt it, or if at this point it would't matter?

 

[chicklover 1998]

Welcome to BYC, it is what sort of holds the chick to the shell it will dry out and fall off in a bit.

 

[Gnarled Carrots]

If it's more on their belly than their butt, it's definitely an umbilical cord. It will fall off on its and you won't have to worry about it. Pulling it off can harm the chicks, so just leave it alone!

If it's on their butts, though, they're more likely pasting up and you'll want to remove the blockage with a cloth and warm water. However, it's probably the umbilical cord and they won't notice it at all. Just let it fall of on its own time.