Week old Chick Shaking in Hand

[jessicamoo]

I'm brand new to raising chickens. 2 of my babies when picked up have very small shaking. Is this because they are nervous and young or should I be concerned? They are a week old, I believe, and they do not shake sitting in their little area, only when picked up. It's not noticeable by the eye, you can just feel it in your hand.

 

[M-H-Fielding]

I have had a few of mine do that when they are scared, but I would advise keeping an eye on your chicks to make sure they don't show any symptoms of sickness. It's probably fine, but better safe then sorry.

 

[Ryguy3684]

This has happened with a lot of my chicks, over 5 hatches. Keep an eye on them, but it should be fine.

 

[MadamContrary]

I have had many, many chicks do this in my last three batches. I assumed they were cold, but as they've gotten older they have all been my most skittish birds who don't enjoy being handled now. I hatched the first two batches and the third came from TSC. I'm now thinking it's fear, maybe work on just trust a bit more. Do you offer treats yet? Meal worms win over any bird, just be sure to offer chick grit and don't go overboard or you can end up with pasty butt.

 

[jessicamoo]

I have had many, many chicks do this in my last three batches. I assumed they were cold, but as they've gotten older they have all been my most skittish birds who don't enjoy being handled now. I hatched the first two batches and the third came from TSC. I'm now thinking it's fear, maybe work on just trust a bit more. Do you offer treats yet? Meal worms win over any bird, just be sure to offer chick grit and don't go overboard or you can end up with pasty butt.

I have not offered any treats. I can try doing that. I have a boy with pasty butt right now so I'm working with him on that. Thanks for the advice!

 

[MadamContrary]

I have not offered any treats. I can try doing that. I have a boy with pasty butt right now so I'm working with him on that. Thanks for the advice!

In that case hold off on treats until pasty butt is resolved. Moistening the feed can help with hydration and if you haven't yet offer something with probiotics. A lot of high quality feed already contain some so check that and if not a splash of apple cider vinegar with the mother in the water or a commercial chick probiotic powder added to water can help. Good luck with your babies!