Chickens 101: Raising Baby Chicks

Raising baby chicks can be a rewarding experience, but it does come with its challenges. As you embark on your journey into the world of chicken-keeping, it’s important to equip yourself with the knowledge needed to care for these delicate creatures. This guide highlights key considerations, from understanding causes of chick mortality to integrating them into an established flock.

Where do I get my baby chicks?

First, If you're planning to purchase baby chicks, online hatcheries are a convenient and reliable option for sourcing healthy birds. Reputable hatcheries provide detailed descriptions of breeds, allowing you to choose ones suited to your climate and purpose—be it egg-laying, meat production, or as friendly pets. It’s important to order from trusted suppliers with good reviews to ensure the chicks arrive healthy and vaccinated when possible. Be prepared for a minimum order size, as hatcheries often ship chicks in quantities to maintain warmth during transit.

In the past I have used hatcheries such as Cackle Hatchery or Murray McMurray Hatchery, but online is not the only option. Some local feed stores still sell chicks on occasion. Growing up for example, I have a fond memory of my brother buying me a pair of baby chicks from our local feed store. When buying locally or online, as always, ensure the seller is trusted and the chicks are healthy.

Chick Health and Well-being

Let’s discuss baby chick mortality. While most chicks are resilient, they are also fragile in their early days. Common causes of mortality include improper brooder conditions (e.g., incorrect temperature or insufficient ventilation), dehydration, and nutritional deficiencies. Additionally, illnesses such as Coccidiosis or bacterial infections can take a toll. Providing a clean brooder, maintaining a consistent temperature, and ensuring access to fresh water and high-quality starter feed can significantly reduce these risks.

Ultimately, Chickens thrive on routine care. Providing fresh water and food daily is non-negotiable. Don’t forget to spend time observing your flock—you’ll quickly pick up on their personalities and spot signs of illness or stress early on.

Chick Diet

As your chicks grow, introducing treats can be a fun way to bond with them, but it’s crucial to ensure these treats are safe and nutritionally appropriate. Many local feed and seed stores have select foods specifically for chicks as adult chickens and other birds have differing diets.

Integration with the flock

Eventually, your chicks will need to be integrated into an existing flock—a process that should be done gradually to minimize stress and aggression. Start by housing the chicks near the adult flock but separated by a barrier so they can see and interact with each other safely. After a week or two, try supervised mingling in neutral territory. Always ensure the chicks are at least 8–12 weeks old and large enough to fend for themselves before full integration.

Raising baby chicks is a journey that requires patience and dedication, but with proper care and preparation, you’ll be rewarded with happy, healthy birds that bring joy and productivity to your backyard flock. Whether you’re a first-time chicken keeper or adding to your existing brood, these tips will help you set your chicks up for success. Happy chick-raising! 🐣