Basics on Buying and Caring for Baby Chicks
Chickens are a Practical Interesting Experience in Rural Living
Mar 22, 2009
Keeping chickens for a personal supply of fresh eggs is not only economical, it is an adventure in rural living experienced by the small farmers of early America. Every homestead had a flock of chickens to provide eggs and meat for the table. Whether starting with hens that are already laying, or deciding to buy baby chicks, there are a few things that should be considered.
Baby Chicks
Don't be lulled into impulse buying when it comes to baby chickens. Sure, they're cute and fuzzy and look like great pets. In reality they are delicate creatures that need the right nutrition, the right temperature, and adequate housing as they grow. In very limited space two or three chicks can give you a small start toward a flock, but if land allows, and there are plans to build a regular chicken house, then starting with 25 to 100 will get the homestead flock established. There are several mail order houses in the USA that will send chicks directly to the door. Buying straight run chicks means purchasing one day old hatchlings that have not been sexed. The chances of receiving equal numbers of hens and cockerels (males) is fair although don't be surprised if one outnumbers the other.
Caring for the Chicks
Until they are starting to feather out baby chicks must be kept warm day and night. Purchasing a manufactured brooder is one option but the homemade variety can serve as well. Put the chicks in a metal tub, or something fire proof, and hang a heat lamp bulb above it. Place a thermometer on the side of the tub so the temperature can be monitored. Start the baby chicks at 95 degrees and drop the temperature by five degrees each week
Feeding the Babies
Proper nutrition is a must. Chick starter can be purchased at the local livestock feed store. A generous, clean supply should be kept in front of the chicks at all times. Special feeders for baby chicks can be purchased with small slots that allow them to peck without scratching the feed into the litter on the floor. Waterers designed to keep the chicks from climbing in and getting wet should be used. These are sometimes a small canning jar screwed to a lid with a trough. The chicks can drink without getting wet and chilled or drowning.
On Their Own
When the babies have begun to sprout wing and body feathers and no longer need the heat they are ready to be on their own. Acclimate them carefully to their permanent surroundings to prevent stress and disease. For more information on rearing baby chicks visit the local University Extension Office or go online to a University Extension site.
Source: Raising Poultry Successfully, Will Graves, Williamson Publishing Company, 1985
