Provide Water for chicks

For their first two to three days of life, chicks don’t eat or drink much because they’re using nutrients from their yolk sac.

However, if you ordered chicks, they’ll be ready to start eating and drinking by the time they arrive. As you remove them from their carton one by one, dip each chick’s beak in water to help them take that first drink.

Make sure water is always available to the chicks. If the chicks appear lethargic, the U of F Extension recommends adding 1/4 to 1/2 cup sugar per gallon of water to boost their energy levels.

And a word here on water pans: Chicks drown easily, and they also climb up and into water pans, so use small troughs that will keep them safe.

Some farmers add clean marbles or pebbles to the water pan or ring for the first week or two: The chicks can access the water easily, but danger of drowning is low.

Yours in the garden Farm2Markt