Ten days ago we received 50 new layers - Ameraucanas - the kind that lay the blue green eggs. The day new chicks arrive begins with a phone call at about 7 a.m. from the post office in Wyoming just 4 miles west of here. Postal employee Kathy always calls and says, "Chicks are here!" and we always reply "We'll be right in!"
All our chicks come from Welp Hatchery in Iowa. The chicks survive the 2 day journey with no supplemental food or water. Apparently, prior to completely hatching, the young chicks absorb the remaining egg yolk which supplies them with the nutrients they need for the first 3 days of life.
These chicks arrived in great condition and there is no greater thrill for Laura and Susannah than gently handling the tiny chicks.
Susannah Holds The Box With The 50 New Chicks
Susannah Gently Lifts The New Chicks Out Into The Brooder
The chicks are kept in a warm dry brooder for the first few weeks of their life where heat lamps keep them close to 90 degrees at first. Gradually the chicks do not need extra heat and are eventually heading outside to explore the world.
And Here A Chick Gets A First Drink
