If chick behaviour indicates that environmental conditions are not correct, adjustments to the environment must be made and behaviour re-assessed
Providing chicks with the correct brooding conditions will ensure they get off to a good start.
Temperature and humidity should be monitored regularly but one of the best indicators of correct brooding conditions is chick behaviour.
What are my chicks telling me?
-Environment too cold: Chicks huddle together or under heat source, and may be noisy and distress-calling.
-Environment correct: Chicks are spread evenly and noise signifies contentment.
-Environment too hot: Chicks move away from heat source, are quiet and pant, and head and wings droop.
Achieving correct environmental conditions during brooding will ensure:
-Good development of appetite, and feeding and drinking behaviour
-Increased chick activity
-A more uniform flock development
-Optimum health and growth.
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