Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
Why hold a chicken? Because sometimes you need to transport them, apply med-
ication, or just check their general health and well-being. You also want a flock
that's comfortable with humans. Regular handling means your birds will be less edgy
around people relaxing outside or a friend's kid who simply must hold one of the
cluck-clucks.
A good tip: If you need to move your chickens to a new home, pull them o! the
roost as they rest at night. Darkness is the easiest time to catch and pick up a chicken,
and if your coop has a light (for your benefit), you'll be home free.
WEEK 5
Staging a Coop
In their fifth week of life, your chicks should be all feathered out in the lovely plumage
of their adult selves. They're still tiny compared to what they'll become, but the mark-
ings and feathers are all there. Combs are red and healthy on foreheads, feet are golden
yellow (slate or blue-green if they're Ameraucanas), and eyes are bright and constantly
aware. You now have in your possession the chicken version of tweens.
Their dietary needs are changing too. If you haven't already switched from chick feed
to developer feed, now is the time to do it.
A PEEK AT THE WORLD
If you live in a warm climate, consider introducing your spunky adolescents to the out-
doors, and let them experience the world outside their brooder. While under your super-
vision, of course, and in a safe enclosure, let the birds feel grass under their feet and
learn to chase ants. These girls will spend their whole lives in your backyard, so give
them a taste of the sun, dirt, and delicious bugs.
