A Beginner’s Guide to Raising Baby Chicks: Insights from Our Farm

Congratulations on your new baby chicks! We understand that starting your journey as a chicken owner can be both exciting and overwhelming. But fret not, as we're here to guide you through the process. At our farm, we've had the pleasure of helping many beginners like yourself successfully raise their baby chicks into happy and healthy chickens. In this blog, we'll share some valuable insights and tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for you and your new feathered friends.

1. Creating a Cozy Brooder:
Before bringing your baby chicks home, it's essential to set up a cozy and safe environment for them. A brooder is a temporary home where the chicks will spend their first few weeks. Ensure it is clean, draft-free, and equipped with a heat source to maintain an optimal temperature of around 95°F (35°C). Use a thermometer to double check temperature in the brooder periodically. Always make sure the brooder is big enough for chicks to get away from the heat source if they get too hot.

2. Proper Nutrition and Hydration:
Providing a balanced diet is crucial for the growth and development of your chicks. Start with a high-quality chick starter feed specifically formulated for their needs. (We personally avoid any feed that is medicated as it can cause complications and vitamin deficiency’s in certain breeds). Offer fresh water at all times in a shallow dish or a waterer designed for chicks. You could also add some larger pebbles or stones to insure that no chicks drown. Make sure the water is clean and easily accessible to prevent dehydration.

3. Maintaining Hygiene:
Keeping your brooder clean is vital for the health of your baby chicks. Regularly remove any soiled bedding and replace it with fresh, clean material. This will help prevent the buildup of harmful bacteria and ensure a healthy environment for your chicks. Coccidia is the number one cause of death and issues in baby chicks and grow outs and it starts with dirty brooders.

4. Socialization and Gentle Handling:
Handle your chicks gently and frequently to help them become comfortable with human interaction. This will make them more docile as they grow and make it easier for you to care for them. Allow them to explore your hand and gradually introduce them to other family members to promote socialization. With this being said always consider balance, don’t let children or adults handle the chicks roughly or stress them out continuously.

5. Gradual Transition to the Outdoors:
As your chicks grow, they'll need to transition from the brooder to their secure outdoor coop. This process should be gradual, allowing them time to adjust to the new surroundings. Start by introducing short supervised visits to an enclosed outdoor area, gradually increasing the duration as they become acclimated.

6. Safety Measures:
Ensure your coop is predator-proof by using sturdy fencing, secure locks, and covering any openings such as windows or vents. Regularly inspect the coop for any signs of wear and tear, and promptly repair or replace damaged areas to keep your chicks safe. Chicken wire was made to keep chickens in but not to keep predators out. Consider this when building your coop. We recommend hardware cloth if going that route.

7. Seek Advice and Join a Community:
Don't hesitate to seek guidance from experienced chicken owners or join online communities dedicated to poultry enthusiasts. These resources can provide valuable insights, support, and advice throughout your chicken-raising journey. Reach out to us anytime via email or commenting below if you have any questions!


Raising baby chicks is a rewarding and enjoyable experience for beginners. By following these tips and providing your chicks with love, care, and attention, you'll be well on your way to creating a healthy and happy flock. Remember, patience and learning from experience will be your best allies. Enjoy the journey and embrace the joy of chicken ownership!