Tip of the month

Once chicks hatch out they take time to build up their immune system against parasites and other environmental contaminants. The first few weeks of life can be a particularly risky period for them. Ensure that any equipment and housing chicks will encounter is treated with an antibacterial product such as Virkon®s before being used. Also, choose a chick starter feed that includes a coccidiostat such as NRM Chick Starter Crumble. Coccidiosis is a parasitic infection that is common in young birds. It can cause death in extreme cases, so picking a feed with a coccidiostat is an easy way to avoid it.