Will they live through the ride?

[RachelVT]

I have what may seem like a silly question. The person I'm getting the chicks from lives about 40 min away from me. Now I'm starting to worry about the ride home. Can I just put them in a box and they'll be okay? Should I worry that it is a long ride and they may get cold (only 5 chicks). Or am I just a nut and they will be fine and make it home alive and ok.

On another note is there any reason to think I will lose one or more in the first weeks? I'm only getting 5, one for each member of our family and I think it would be really hard on the kids if we lose any. My husband says that's life and the kids will deal! But do you all think I should get a few extra just in case?

Thanks in advance for all the advice.........you all are awesome! This site have been such a wonderful resource

 

[HorseFeatherz NV]

I also live a distance from where I sometimes get chicks. Keep the car warm, warm (you will sweat, so take your coat/sweater off when you p/u the chicks and are in the car). If the chicks start peeping/crying they are not warm enough.


Sometimes there are losses, the reason is not always known. If you have room for extras - should they all live - I would get one or two. Are these sexed chicks or straight run - straight you will end up with some roos (even that chance with sexed pullets unless they are sex links).


Cannot wait for pictures of the new fluffies.

 

[WriterofWords]

They should be fine, just put straw in the box so they have a place to nest and not bounce or slide in the box. I've driven them a few hundred miles before and they were fine!

 

[Bassleg]

How old are the chicks?

 

[RachelVT]

Thanks guys. They will be day old chicks and they are sexed. But maybe 2 more is a good idea. I'm getting one of each breed so we can tell them apart. Any suggestions of two other breeds that are cold weather hardy and friendly? We are getting bared rock, speckled Sussex, aracana, RR, and a buff Orpington. Any thoughts on Delawares?

 

[nelgkel]

if it was me, I would take a heat pack and put it in with the chicks to keep them warm...like a rice sock warmed in the microwave...or a baked potato wrapped in a towel..

blessings from FL
Kelly

 

[happyhensny]

Set them on the floor near the heater, cover them so they do not get drafty and take your coat off, grab a cup of coffee and drive away. I just transported 25 meaties over an hour in the car and all are great.

 

[4-H chicken mom]

Just turn the heat up high and they will be fine. Oh, you had better were a T-shirt.

 

[One Acre Wonder Farm]

I think a small-ish cardboard box with hay in the bottom kept in a warm car will be fine for an hour or so. If you cover the box (lid or blanket) not only will that keep their heat in but they should sleep for the whole ride. Just have your brooder all warmed up and waiting for you when you get home.

 

[possumhunter]

I have used those hand warmers that you open and shake and they stay warm for up to 8 hours. Just put a towel or something on top of it, so the chicks don't burn their toes - they can get hot! I used a couple when the power went out and I had chick in the brooder. They seemed to stay nice and toasty!