Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
Check your chicks regularly for pasted-up vents. It could save their lives
.
There isn't a chick in the world that won't scream while you do this, but it is certainly
for its own good. A watertight ending to a short life won't make anyone's day brighter.
So keep an eye on all aspects of your animals' ups and downs. It could save a life!
PICKY CHICKS
You may have beautiful heritage chicks, the world's cleanest brooder, and a heat-mon-
itored room, but that doesn't mean trouble can't arise in the most unlikely of places: your
birds themselves. Sometimes chicks peck each other to the point of bleeding or (heav-
en forbid) cannibalism. A little pecking or the occasional bald spot on a lower-ranking
bird is normal, but if blood is drawn, you need to separate the victim from the rest of the
flock.
To prevent bullying, make sure your birds have plenty of space, food, and fresh water.
Stress can cause violence among young birds. If they are content, they are far less likely
to choose a scapegoat. Another option is to use a red brooder light, which tints the entire
home red and may hide the sight of fresh blood.
Chick Diary
