How to Care for Newly Hatched Chicks

Caring for newly hatched chicks is an important job. The chicks will soon grown to be big chickens and produce fresh eggs or more chicks, which are essential for the poultry industry. The chicks are cute and cuddly, but do not get too attached, as the chicks will grow up, and serve other purposes than being a pet.

Things You'll Need

  • Warming box
  • Warming light
  • Chick starter feed
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Instructions

    • 1

      Find a home prior to the chicks' arrival. A brooder house or a warming box can be made from a cardboard box or old aquarium. Be sure the temperature is 90 degrees Fahrenheit and that the box is big enough to house the new flock. A hanging light bulb or a heating pad with a rubber lining of some sort will keep the the small chicks warm. Keep the brooder clean, dry, and draft-free before the chicks arrive.

    • 2

      Do not over-handle the chicks. Newly hatched chicks are very fragile and can become injured quite easily. Pick them up by placing one hand under the belly and the other on top for a firm but gentle hold.

    • 3

      Put the chicks on a surface they can grip, such as burlap or a hardware cloth, for the first four to five days after they hatch. This kind of surface helps the chicks learn to walk and prevents injured legs.

    • 4

      Provide water for the newly hatched chicks to drink. Gently dip the chicks' beaks to introduce them to their water and food source. A low heavy bowl works best. A watering device can also be purchased at a feed store. Check on the water every few hours to be sure that it is clean and available.

    • 5

      Get feed for the chicks. Chick starter feed can be purchased in pet or feed stores. If starter feed is not available, mix wheat, barley, rice and oats and blend just enough to still have some grit. The feed should be left near the chicks; they will stop feeding when they are full.

    • 6

      Line the warming box with sawdust, dry leaves or shredded dry paper once the chicks establish a regular feeding pattern for five or six days straight. Dry leaves are the best material to line the warming box with. They keep the chick feces covered and dry, and they are easy to clean and replace.

    • 7

      Drop the warming box temperature by 5 degrees each week until it has reached 70 degrees Fahrenheit. At that point, the light bulb can be removed as long as the natural temperature stays around 70 degrees Fahrenheit.