Starting and Raising Chicks
•Perkco Supply
Essential Tips from Perkco Supply Inc. to Help You Raise Healthy Chicks
Raising chicks can be an enriching experience, whether you're a seasoned farmer or a first-time poultry keeper. At Perkco Supply Inc. in Exeter, ME, we sell chicks and provide all the supplies and guidance you need to raise healthy, happy birds.
Preparing Your Brooder
Before your chicks arrive, set up a proper brooder:
- Use a sturdy container with high sides
- Line with pine shavings (avoid cedar)
- Install a heat lamp or brooder plate
- Maintain 95°F for the first week, reducing 5°F weekly
Choosing the Right Feed
Proper nutrition is essential for chick development:
- Starter feed (0-8 weeks) - 18-20% protein
- Grower feed (8-18 weeks) - 16-18% protein
- Layer feed (18+ weeks) - 16% protein with calcium
Always provide fresh, clean water alongside feed.
Essential Supplies
Stock up on these items before bringing chicks home:
- Chick waterer (prevents drowning)
- Chick feeder
- Heat source with thermometer
- Bedding material
- Electrolytes for stress reduction
Health Monitoring
Watch for signs of healthy chicks:
- Active and alert behavior
- Bright, clear eyes
- Clean, dry vent area
- Good appetite and water intake
Signs of problems include lethargy, pasty butt, or huddling under heat.
Transitioning to the Coop
When chicks are fully feathered (6-8 weeks):
- Gradually introduce them to outdoor temperatures
- Ensure coop is predator-proof
- Provide adequate space (4 sq ft per bird)
- Install roosts and nesting boxes
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the brooder
- Incorrect temperature
- Using slippery surfaces (causes leg problems)
- Introducing chicks to adult birds too soon
For more on starting and raising chicks, call Perkco Supply Inc. at (207) 379-2900. Visit our Facebook for more information.