Acclimate and Manage Chicks

What happens here

After placement, the chicks will naturally huddle together under the heat lamp as they warm up from travel. To teach them to drink, gently pick up one chick and dip its beak into the waterer. This chick will then instinctively drink and often teach the other chicks. It is important to cover the brooder with a screen or mesh to protect the chicks from household pets like cats, ensuring their safety. As the pine shavings bedding gets soiled, add new layers on top instead of removing old ones. This creates a deep litter system, which later results in nutrient-rich compost (fertilized sawdust) that can be spread on the farm. Chicks will remain in the brooder for approximately 2-3 weeks if they are laying hens, or 1-2 weeks if they are meat birds, until they are fully feathered out and ready to transition outside.

Goal: Ensure chicks adjust to their new environment and establish routines for feeding, drinking, and safety.