Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
predator-proofing your building.) The draft guard is very important in winter but can
also be important in other seasons. It's vital when a cool breeze comes up after a bad
storm or during the night, or when you may not have much heat directed on the young
fowl.
A Little Litter
When the birds are mature enough to run free on the building floor, you have reached
the time when the variables that affect bird growth rates multiply. You will need to start
using some sort of litter on the floor — pine shavings or straw are best. Dried lawn clip-
pings that have not been treated with chemicals also work well.
Don't make the litter too thick.
An inch or so is plenty. Do not allow the litter to be-
come 3 to 4 inches deep; this just asks for problems with buildup of fumes and compac-
tion. This is a prime time for the young birds to start developing their immune system.
When they are on the ground and in contact with manure, dirt, and other things found in
“the real world,” their immune systems will be exposed to a variety of bacteria and they
will start developing antibodies.
A metal tier brooder is a good setup for older chicks and adolescents.
PASTY BACK ENDS
One indicator of stress may show up in the form of pasty poop stuck to the birds'
back ends on the second and third day. Baby chicks, poults, and keets tend to have
this problem more than do ducklings and goslings. Correct this condition quickly by
