new chicks can't walk

[chickenmom]

My son had about 12 bobwhite quail hatch. About half seem fine the other half can't walk. This is right after hatching. Could it be related to a vitamin deficiency in the parents? Any suggestions on what to do for the chicks? Would giving them a supplement help?

[Reeves]

Whole host of reasons are possible.

Many people will give a water soluble vitamin for the first 2-7 days after hatching.

If they are not "normal" in a couple days, you'll have to learn to cull. It's part n' parcel of raising birds.

[aKirA]

I agree.

Half is really a high ratio. Could have been heat too high during incubation, etc. If their little feets aren't totally abnormal, I have had success massaging their little legs and feet to get the blood circulating.

Right after hatching, they usually can't walk yet. It'll take a few good minutes before they're strong enough to walk. So just making sure you are not jumping the gun.

[jchiar]

Are they straddle leg? toes curled  ?

[SuzyQ]

Out of 30 eggs, 18 hatched...the 18th one a "special needs" chick.  Couldnt hold his head up or stand,  just rolling around like a marble.  When, after 3 days and "nature didnt take her course", we began to hand feed him... we even made him a tiny neck brace from a foam sheet.  I understand the natures way, but that tiny little damaged speck of life suprised me with such a will to live like no other.  He's 2 weeks old today, he can stand and walk now and hes learning to eat from a feeder all by himself.  How long will he last, who knows, but I'm willing to take the time.

[Reeves]

You will not want to use it for a breeder if it lives. Weak ones shouldn't be used to produce more weak ones.