When fecal matter hardens, it can cause a blockage to a chick’s gastrointestinal system that if left uncleaned can cause the chick to die.

BY BILL GRAVES

Spring always brings a degree of optimism. Don’t laugh. Really, it does. On the farm, the reason is simple. Despite all the crazy things that are happening elsewhere, spring on the farm carries thoughts of planting, rebirth and new growth. Springtime to chicken lovers across the country means that chicks are available once again.

For the past few winter months, chilly hens have been on hiatus. Most laying breeds will continue to lay through the winter. Egg numbers are usually down, and very few, if any, hens ever go broody. Many will molt in the fall so even the hatcheries don’t bother trying to supply chicks through the winter months. The point is that those of us that have chickens are finally finding healthy chicks available once again. In fact, springtime means keepers even have breed choices. Maybe you raise your own chicks to replenish your flock, but the suburban chicken-keepers I know can’t have roosters and simply want to keep their flock numbers small in modest-sized houses and runs.

Almost everyone that keeps chickens must replace or add chicks to their flock from time to time, or annually. I consider myself a typical small-time keeper with 15 to 20 hens and no rooster. You may be larger or smaller or maybe just considering a few hens for the first time. Regardless, the excitement of getting new chicks is certainly fun and a time for optimism.

However, here’s the deal with new chicks. They come with a degree of responsibility. It can even be a great learning experience for youngsters if you also keep an eye on things. Day-old chicks, whether from a feed-supply store or chicks you order on your own, are just that. They are 1 day old, and they need attention. Specifically, they need constant feed, water, warmth and cover.