Backyard Fowl Keepers

Sometimes chicks make noise when they're not feeling secure. Check for any drafts, odd shadows, or outside disturbances that could be making them nervous.

GerryGrit wrote: Sun Feb 16, 2025 10:59 am I saw that Murray McMurray sells cranes, and Id love to get some someday. Does anyone have experience or advice on keeping them?

They require specific diets and enclosures. Not your typical backyard bird!

Sounds like an imprinting issue! Some chicks form strong bonds with people if they don't have a mother hen. Try giving it extra handling time to reassure it. You might also introduce a soft object, like a plush toy, to snuggle against.

I had a similar issue with my first hatch. It turned out some eggs were fine despite my worries. Sometimes, what looks like a misplaced air sac isn't actually a problem. Keep going, candle again in a few days, and watch for movement!

Any chance she's been exposed to moldy feed or toxic plants? Neurological symptoms can sometimes be caused by something she ate. Check her environment and make sure she hasn't gotten into anything unusual.

I had a batch of mottled Orpingtons, and their white spots barely showed at five months. After their first full molt, though, they transformed! You might still see changes soon.

Trust your instincts! If something feels off, candle first and go from there. You'll learn a lot from this hatch for the next one!

You mentioned she has no appetite,does she show interest in food but refuse to eat, or does she ignore it completely? If she's drinking but not eating, she might have pain or an internal blockage.

As long as they have access to their regular food, I wouldn't worry about the moss. It's not toxic, but they're likely to prefer foraging for seeds, bugs, and grass. If they nibble on the moss, it won't hurt them.

After cleaning, let the coop sit empty for a few days with good airflow-fresh air is a great sanitizer!