Chapter 14
Raising Chicks
IN THIS CHAPTER
Getting to know brooders
Helping the hen help the chicks
Feeding and watering chicks
Knowing what’s normal when raising chicks
Combining chicks and children safely
All babies need food, water, warmth, and protection, but some need more help than others. Many baby birds are hatched naked and helpless, but in the pheasant family — to which chickens belong — when the chicks hatch, they’re already wearing warm suits of down (also called fluff). After merely an hour or so, the chicks are on their feet and moving around, and they’re fast on their little feet after just a few hours. They’re also able to feed themselves. Their major needs from someone else are warmth and protection.
Because being warm and protected are primarily what chicks need outside help with, we begin this chapter with those subjects. Later we discuss the proper feed for chicks and the growth stages of chicks. We also take a look at any adjustments in care they may need as they ...
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