Welcome, Little Peeps! A Guide to Caring for Your New Chicks

Spring is in the air, and so are the adorable chirps of newly hatched chicks! Maybe you’ve just returned from the feed store with your chicks (or your beloved Henrietta, who went missing for a few weeks, has now reappeared with a family in tow) and you’re wondering “now what do I do?” It’s true that those tiny, fluffy bundles of joy require careful attention to thrive. Today, we'll cover the essentials of chick care!

The First Few Weeks: Setting Up Your Chick Nursery

• Brooder Basics: Your chicks need a warm, safe environment called a brooder. This can be a large plastic tub, a cardboard box, or a purpose-built brooder. Large livestock water troughs that have sprung a leak are a popular option and can often be purchased second hand at a cheap price!

• Warmth is Key: Baby chicks can't regulate their body temperature, so you'll need a source of heat. Start with a temperature of around 95°F (35°C) for the first week, and reduce it by 5°F each week until they're fully feathered. A thermometer is essential! Heat lamps are an inexpensive, commonly used heat source. However, they can become a fire risk. If you decide to use a heat lamp make sure it is properly secured so it won’t fall down or move, kept it clean and free of dust of feathers, and ensure that it’s not touching or too close to anything flammable. Heat plates do command a higher initial investment but are a heating option that is safer and easier to manage.
• Clean Bedding: Pine shavings are a good choice for bedding. Avoid cedar shavings, as they can be harmful to chicks. Clean the brooder regularly to prevent diseases like coccidiosis or respiratory problems.
• Water and Feeders: Use shallow waterers and feeders designed for chicks. You don't want them to accidentally drown or get stuck. If using a water tray or dish designed for adult chickens fill the bottom with large marbles or pebbles to keep small chicks safe.
• Chick Starter Feed: Provide a high-quality chick starter feed, typically containing 18-20% protein, for the first few weeks.
• Acclimating to Humans: This step is only important if you want friendly adult chickens. Spending just a couple minutes each day allowing your chicks to eat treats from your hand and carefully picking each chick up can go a long way in creating calm, easy to handle hens.

Introducing Black Soldier Fly Larvae: A Nutritional Powerhouse

Now, let's talk about a fantastic addition to your chicks' diet: black soldier fly larvae (BSFL). These little critters are packed with protein, healthy fats, and essential nutrients, making them an excellent natural supplement.

• Why BSFL?
• High Protein: Essential for rapid growth and feather development.
• Calcium Rich: Promotes strong bones.
• Natural Source: Chicks love them, and it encourages natural foraging behavior.
• Boosted Immunity: The healthy fats and nutrients can support their immune systems.
• How to Introduce BSFL:
• Start by offering small amounts of crumbled BSFL to their feed.
• Sprinkle them on top of their starter feed or offer them in a separate dish or in the palm of your hand.
• Observe your chicks and adjust the amount based on their appetite.
• It is best to start adding BSFL after they are a week old.
• Quality Matters: Choose high-quality, sustainably sourced BSFL from Egg Brigade – our larvae are always grown in the USA to the highest quality standards possible.

Other Important Chick Care Tips:

• • Fresh Water: Ensure your chicks always have access to clean, fresh water.
  • Observe Their Behavior: Watch for signs of illness, such as lethargy, ruffled feathers, or diarrhea.
  • Gradual Outdoor Exposure: Once they're fully feathered (around 6-8 weeks), gradually introduce them to the outdoors on warm, sunny days. When introducing new chickens to an already existing flock it’s important to do so gradually to prevent bullying & injury. Put your juvenile chickens in a cage where your established flock can see and talk to them so they become acclimated to each other over several days.
  • Preventing Pasty Butt: Pasty butt is a common problem in young chicks, caused by sticky droppings blocking their vent. If the condition occurs, gently clean the vent with a warm wet cloth.

• • Space is Important: As they grow they will require more space. Overcrowding can lead to health problems.

The Joy of Raising Chicks

Raising chicks is a rewarding experience. By providing them with proper care and a nutritious diet, including black soldier fly larvae, you'll help them grow into healthy, happy chickens.

BSFL from Egg Brigade are an excellent source of protein, fats and essential minerals always harvested in the United States under strict quality-control. Available as a single purchase or ongoing subscription, we offer 1lb, 2lb, 5lb, and 10lb options.

We would love to see what other DIY ideas you come up with as you raise your chicks. Let us know in the comments.