Week Two
They've absolutely exploded in size, uniqueness, and personality. One easter egger is significantly larger than the rest of the hens, we think this may be a rooster. There are many chicks that aren't far behind. They are getting more and more pin feathers and with that is coming unique designs. We are able to tell almost every chicken apart. The chicks are much more coordinated now. They are using their wings to balance and run faster as well as jump onto and off of a box we put in their area.
One brown leghorn has developed a large stomach. She isn't acting lethargic or sick but has a larger stomach than the rest and we fear she may be malformed. This is the only possible health concern they have right now. Poopy butt is completely gone.
We spent a lot more time in the brooding room this week and the chicks are becoming more curious about our presence. Because we're past two weeks we are lowering the temperature again to 80 degress F and reducing the amount of grit we give them. We are planning on starting to give them treats but only handfed. We want the chickens to be friendly so we are handling and getting them used to us which is becoming easier now that they seem less afraid.
Planning
In about four weeks they should be ready to go outside. Before then we will let them outside for short periods of time under our supervision. We still have work to do on their new home including building a roosting area, filling the run with material, and building the laying boxes. We should be able to get this done by then no problem. We are hoping the weather permits us to do outside work to make the transition easier for us and them!
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