Unsecure chicken perches

[Isabel]

Sorry, me again!!! He's well over the 24 hr mark now and Mum is still sitting tight. There is chick crumb nearby and water a little further away but still within the broody house. Do I leave them all alone and if so, will he survive til morning? Or do I show him the food and water? Both are in chick feeders/drinkers but I wonder whether the chick crumb might be best just on an open saucer/base of feeder so as it's easier to access.

 

It's lashing rain and blowing a gale so I've no desire to go back out tonight but obviously will if anyone thinks the little one needs attention. Have lost two chicks and don't want to lose anymore.

 

Thanks!!

 

Isabel

[mimi5]

Oh Isabel they are such a worry!!! I have thankfully seen my 2 eat and drink. But I have taken onboard the advice to have shallow lids one with chick crumb and the other with water and marbles in. There is also a chick drinker and bowl for mum.

 

I also dipped the chicks beaks into the water this morning when I had to boot mum out of the nest to clear up poo (hers) I have posted some photos on the previuos subject. I also still have mum sitting tight, but no change in the eggs when I last saw them.

 

Wishing you all the best!!!! Keep us posted!

[Isabel]

Thanks Mimi - I read your reply and then went and tried to sort them out. Moved the feeders further away for Mum if she wants them and put saucers out with chick crumb and water (pebbles too!). Dipped their beaks in both water and crumb a couple of times and scattered some where Mum could reach. She pecked at it and I think one or two of them tried (half-heartedly!) too. They were all nice and alert and made their way back under Nigella when they had had enough. I won't see them until after the school run tomorrow but am going to try and tidy it all up a bit and make doubly sure they can't get trapped behind the nesting box etc. Feel like the others won't hatch but she isn't budging so maybe she knows more than me!!

[Kirstie]

Sounds like youre getting on fine (both of you x) all the chicks sound lovely, good luck with the eggs that haven't hatched yet x it's so lovely watching mum and chicks - just wait until you let them out - it takes a day or so before the chicks go discovering but then there's no stopping them x

[Lewis]

They should be fine, for the first 24-72 hours the chick absorbs its yolk sac so will be ok without food.

 

The broody will show them how to eat but if you're worried you can put your fingers in the crumb or water and tap your fingers to get the chicks attention, then they copy you and peck at it