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Rearing Chicks
Problem chicks
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There are more serious problems that can manifest with young birds. There is a need for a high protein diet with appropriate minerals and vitamins for the parent birds, otherwise deficiencies can show up in the chicks.
One of these is rickets as a result of parental shortage of Vitamin D so that they are unable to metabolize calcium and phosphorus effectively. The result may be twisted or rubbery bones, or splayed legs.
Chicks with gross defects should be put down humanely and immediately. If the splayed legs are not too severe, it is possible to straighten and support them with matchsticks and sticky tape. A few days of this, while making sure the chick has enough to eat and drink, will often do the trick.
Leg damage can be caused in otherwise healthy birds, particularly large ones such as ostriches and emus. Their long legs are prone to weakness so they are usually provided with ribbed rubber mats to prevent slipping in the brooding area, and are also encouraged to exercise as much as possible.
Goslings may develop a ‘slipped wing’ where one wing trails down on one side. If it sticks out sideways, the condition is referred to as ‘angel wing’. It is sometimes possible to correct the fault by strapping the affected wing in place, against the side.
Soft, wide elastic is useful in this respect, but make sure that it is not too tight. Two people will be necessary for this, one to hold and one to apply the strapping. This technique has been known to work, but it is inadvisable to breed from the bird in future, in case there is a genetic tendency towards the condition.
Impaction can be a problem. This is where wood shavings, coarse grass or foreign objects are eaten so that the crop becomes blocked.
It is important to have food available when needed so that the young birds are less likely to try unpalatable objects. You need fine, non-soluble grit for the healthy working of the gizzard.
Copyright © Katie Thear 2005