What to feed newly hatched chicks?

[lifetimechicklover]

One of my Old Eng. Game Bantams made a nest in one of my large flower pots outside. She just hatched 3 babies, and I didn't get chick starter feed; not knowing if the eggs were even fertile. Because of imminent wind/rain from Hurricane Florence I must move her to an inside coop. I cannot leave to purchase feed, so what is your suggestion for the next few days? I have scratch feed; layer crumbles, and boiled eggs. Would it be ok to pulverize the feeds I have on hand???

 

[rosemarythyme]

IMO the eggs would be the best choice. After that the crumble, mainly because it would be easier for chicks to eat versus whole grains especially since they can't get out to find grit.

 

[Happy Henny]

Do not feed them crumble! The calcium is very bad for the chicks...
I would get the boiled eggs and crush them up real fine and feed that to the chicks

 

[AlleysChicks]

Boiled egg yolk and corn meal if you have it on hand. A little bit of layer won’t hurt them for a few days if you have to use it. I would add water to it to make it easier since these chicks are so small.

 

[lifetimechicklover]

Thanks!!

 

[aart]

A little bit of layer won’t hurt them for a few days if you have to use it. I would add water to it to make it easier since these chicks are so small.

Agrees.
You could always grind it up in a blender, that's what I do with Flock Raiser crumble feed for chicks for the fist week or so.

 

[CindyinSD]

Well... a blender IF you have electricity. Do you have a mortar and pestle? Glad you’re doing well enough to worry about unexpected baby chickens. My little chicks looked askance at mashed boiled eggs, but they did ultimately decide to eat them.

 

[chickens really]

Chick starter is actually all they need...

 

[snow5164]

I’d grind up the scratch because it has no calcium, I know the layer crumble for a few days won’t hurt but why?

I think If you’ve got scratch and eggs that’s all they need til you can go shopping

 

[snow5164]

Chick starter is actually all they need...

She can’t get to the store becuse there’s a HURRICANE!