The chickens are doing well for the most part. We lost one right away, two more within the first 48 hours, and a fourth one died today. The first one appeared to have choked on water (freak accident?), the second one had pasty butt and I cleaned it up, but it never perked back up. The third one didn't seem to have any noticeable issues, but just failed to thrive. The one that died today was the smallest in the whole box and wasn't looking good on arrival day. I didn't think it would make it this long, so it's death was pretty much anticipated. The remaining 50 chicks seem to be doing well. They're already growing wing feathers! Wow they are growing fast!
I've spent a lot of time researching and think I've been able to identify (or give a close guess) for 48 of the 50 chicks. Check out the 2018 ID page if you're interested in checking my guesses (feedback is always welcome).
Sunday night or maybe Monday I am hoping to take some updated photos. In the meantime, today we celebrate an end to the paper towel lining in the brooder box. Babies are on pine bedding now.
While #3 was out doing barn chores, she collected a huge egg from the nest box. We only have one hen, so we know it was from Henrietta (a Barred Rock). It was already cracked, so she asked if she could break it open. I was curious too, so I told her to go ahead. She sent me the following photos.