Sunday, May 1, 2011

Chicks in Trouble? Check those Butts!

Last week I just could not resist and purchased a SECOND batch of 6 new peeps!  I had gotten 6 chicks about 5 weeks ago and they grew so quickly.  3 of them sold, and I'm keeping the other 3 out of that batch, and plan to sell 2 of this new batch, which will leave me with 7 new layers for this coming fall.  Nothing like counting your chickens, right?
We've been getting many questions from newbees that come to see the Heritage Hen House that hubby has been building.  I'm always happy to help answer questions and give advice on picking out baby chicks to get people started out right with their first flock.  One of the troubles folks need to try to avoid is buying chicks with "Pasty Butt".  It looks just like it sounds - "poo" that builds up on the chick's behind and clogs their vent area.  If they remain plugged they could perish in short order.  Do not purchase chicks that have this issue.  It is caused by stress: too hot, too cold, transporting, and overcrowding can be some of the causes of pasty butt.  If this happens to an otherwise healthy chick once you've had it for a few days, hold it's fanny under running tepid water till the manure loosens, then clean it off and let the chick dry off in it's brooder or box with heat lamp, and keep an eye out for any more problems.  If it persists, medicated feed may help, or add electrolytes to the drinking water.  Feeding a bit of cornmeal mixed in with the feed is something else to try.

Have a great week -
the ChickenWrangler

13 comments:

Chatty Crone said...

Thanks - someone posted and asked about this and I can't remember!

So this isn't like WInnie the Pooh good - it is poo (lol) bad.

sandie♥

Unknown said...

Now when I saw the post header I thought you were going to tell us about the 'other' butts. (smokers butts) Good info- I am learning a little at a time. Maa.

Cindy said...

Isn't it fun being a mama to these little babies!!Poop and all..lol

I wonder how the mamas do this in the wild?

come on baby...the river isn't that cold...sit down now...now shake hard...lol

Hugs Cindy

Love Of Quilts said...

Good to know thanks...I'm going to get me a few chicks in the next few days....my son is giving them to me. Trish

Anonymous said...

Such cute photos!

Angela said...

Your new chicks are sooooo cute! They have the best home a chick could ever have living with you! I can't wait to see them when they get older!

Tuesdays' Show & Tail!
Angela

Anonymous said...

Awwwww,too cute,I am so jealous I want a chicken coop sooooo bad!
Love these babies!
~Jo
LazyonLoblolly

Betty said...

They sure are cute!

Annesphamily said...

Sweet little chicks! I love the one sitting in the glass! My are so soft and sweet looking. Thanks for sharing. Hugs Anne

The Boston Lady said...

This was so interesting! Cute little chicks and what a fascinating venture you have. Ann

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Carol............. said...

What sweet looking babies!

I bought 6 pullets last week but I asked for the ones that were already a bit older and had a few feathers so I had less to worry about since there is so much else to do after being gone for the winter.

have a fun week.

ocmist said...

I'm over here catching up... on "pasty butt" of all things! :)