12/06/2026
🐥 Understanding Day-Old Chicks: A Guide for Poultry Farmers
Day-old chicks are the foundation of a successful poultry business. The quality of care they receive during their first few days of life greatly determines their growth, health, and overall performance.
What Are Day-Old Chicks?
Day-old chicks are newly hatched birds that are usually between 1 and 24 hours old when they arrive at the farm. At this stage, they are delicate and require special attention.
Important Things to Do When Day-Old Chicks Arrive
✅ Prepare the Brooder Before Arrival
Ensure the brooding house is thoroughly cleaned, disinfected, and pre-heated before the chicks arrive. A warm and comfortable environment helps reduce stress.
✅ Provide Clean Water Immediately
Give the chicks clean water mixed with glucose and vitamins to help them recover from transportation stress and regain energy.
✅ Maintain Proper Temperature
Day-old chicks cannot regulate their body temperature effectively. Keep the brooder temperature around 32–35°C during the first week and monitor their behavior to know if they are comfortable.
✅ Spread Paper on the Floor
Place clean paper on the floor and spread feed on it for the first few days. This helps chicks easily locate feed and prevents them from eating litter materials.
✅ Provide Quality Feed
Offer a good-quality chick starter feed to ensure proper growth and development.
✅ Observe the Chicks Regularly
Healthy chicks are active, alert, bright-eyed, and move around freely. Watch for any signs of weakness, sickness, or unusual behavior.
Signs of Healthy Day-Old Chicks
✔ Bright and active
✔ Dry and fluffy feathers
✔ Strong legs and good movement
✔ Clear eyes
✔ Well-healed navel
Note:
The first week of a chick’s life is the most critical period in poultry production. Proper brooding, clean water, quality feed, and close monitoring will help ensure healthy growth and reduce mortality.
Remember: A healthy flock starts with healthy day-old chicks and proper manage