Why is one of our RIRs so small?

[LPOHHomestead]

We have 4 RIR pullets that are 11 weeks old. They are all doing very well and seem really healthy, but one is SO much smaller than the others. Here are some pics comparing her to her 'sisters'.

Is something wrong with her? What can I do to help her grow? I'm worried about her surviving the winter. It can get pretty cold and ugly in Indiana during the winter months.

 

[bhazell123]

I aso have a rir that is smaller than my others too I just figured the bigger ones were eating before her so I let her get some straight out of the jug before I dump it to the rest lol

 

[Cpprpnny19]

Make sure she is getting her share of feed........





Lynne

 

[chicmom]

I think sometimes you get a runt. I really do. I had a polish bantam hen that was no bigger than a robin. Very small. I think these things just happen now and then. As long as she's healthy, and doesn't feel like she's skin and bones, I wouldn't worry.

 

[franh]

Did you have any problem with Cocci when they were younger? That can sometimes lead to poor growth rate

 

[LPOHHomestead]

They've been pretty healthy overall. We haven't any illness that we know of. Maybe she is just a runt. I'm thinking of separating her for a bit to make sure she's getting enough feed. She seems to get treats when I toss them out, but I'll start paying more attention and MAKE sure she's getting her fair share. Thanks for the replies!

 

[spook]

I too have a runt RIR and yes, she had Coccidiosis. Also, there is ample food, grass, treats and the 2 chicks were hatched to a Bantam Cochin "family" and there are only 3 adults and the 2 babies, so there is very little chance its food.

Recently I learned that there are many types of Coccidiosis and even though they may not look dumpie like the typical kind, perhaps it is caused by another that wouldn't show. Just a thought!