This is Petey, who is by far, my favorite chick! This chick jumps into my hands and cuddles

We had 5 chicks die the first night (April 28th). Which left a total of 18. This is, I am told, normal, and make a lovely snack size food for my dog! They may have gotten too cold in transport, or suffered from travel stress. This is ok, and leaves more space for the others.  They have been moved into a 35 gallon bucket.

The chicks have doubled in size (now weight about 0.25 lbs) and the rabbits are 6.7 lbs and 3.4 lbs respectively. I managed to build a makeshift rabbit hutch out of chicken wire and hardware cloth (for their poop to drop) so they are not resting in their own droppings. The plans for a 5 foot x 20 inch brooder box was put on hold. Mostly because I can’t run an extension cord outside, and still lock my door (there are, of course, no outside outlets).  

I have fallen head over heels in love with Petey Bird. He is one who jumps into my hands whenever I drop in food. He also likes to curl up on my lap. Which I find to be just precious! I don’t know if he is a male, but based on his mannerisms, I thought it was a pretty safe bet. Totally eating him last! 

The older, bigger chicks have itty bitty tail-feathers, and they are starting to tuft out feathers in random locations in place of their chicky fluff.

I may have some heritage Rhode Island Reds, which possess a really dark color. 

The chicks may also have a home at camp this summer, pending approval from Ranger Don. This means I could actually grow them to full size, and maybe even have some start to lay! Though, it is a lot of work processing birds. 

Two waters, a feeder, and two roosts make for some happy birds!