Spring Chick Starting
May 10, 2021
Spring is generally when everyone thinks of new offspring coming into the world. Baby chicks, ducks, and other poultry are being ordered for delivery. Feed and bedding are important items to be considered at this time. Ducklings and goslings need non medicated starter and grower feed, while chicks can take medicated or non-medicated feeds. Turkeys need higher protein feeds to be able to grow at an acceptable rate.
Meat maker chicks need special care for successful growth. The feed should be pulled away from them over night. Their rapid growth will cause them to have early deaths from heart attacks if allowed to eat at all times. Also, to keep them from having weak legs, the feeders and waterers should be elevated so they have to reach for the food and water. This keeps their leg muscles stronger.
Contact your local SFG office for assistance if needed.