Page 238 - Hand rearing birds second

226 Hand-Rearing Birds

When handling larger chicks (over 1 kg), place your dominant hand behind the eyes to firmly,
but not roughly, hold the skull. Place the free hand around the abdomen to support the body. The
chick should be held close to the handler’s body. Larger more docile chicks may be picked up
under the flippers, with both handlers’ hands supporting the chick.

­ Common­Medical­Problems­and Solutions

Hypo­and Hyperthermia
The human incubator and brooder temperature should always be carefully monitored. Chicks
should be observed closely for signs of heat or cold stress. The symptoms most frequently observed
in overheated chicks include lethargy, inappetence, panting, and extension of feet and flippers, or
restlessness when other chicks are sleeping or at rest. Overheating can be problematic for chicks of
any age but can quickly become life threatening in very young chicks unless corrective measures
are taken. Hypothermic chicks may be observed shivering or huddled against the side of the
brooder and their feet will be cold to the touch. Chicks in this state will be slow to respond to feed-
ing stimuli. Adjust housing temperatures accordingly.

Overfeeding­and Bloat

This problem can be avoided by carefully evaluating each chick’s weight gain on a daily basis. Even
when strictly following feeding protocols, problems from overfeeding can arise. It is always in the
best interest of the chicks to address their needs individually. What may be an appropriate amount
for one chick may be excessive for another. Generally, a 10–15% daily weight gain is expected during
the first few weeks. Behavior associated with overfeeding includes lethargy, regurgitation, and disin-
terest in food at one or more feeds. Food should be withheld until the chick appears hungry. A dark,
grainy stool may be indicative of improper digestion; thus, the veterinarian should be notified.
Always gently palpate the chick’s abdomen before feeds, as this can determine whether the chick has
digested its previous meal and can help to determine what quantities to feed for the following meal.

Dehydration
Throughout development, hydration should be carefully monitored; this is particularly important
when solid fish is introduced to the diet. Symptoms of dehydration include dry‐looking eyes,
shriveled appearance of the skin on the feet, or thick, pasty feces. The skin along the back will
remain “molded” up if the chick is inadequately hydrated (skin tent test). Oral electrolyte fluids
and water will improve this condition. Subcutaneous fluids may be required in severely dehydrated
chicks regularly throughout the day. The amount of subcutaneous fluids will vary depending on
the size of the chick and severity of dehydration.

Splayed­Legs
Aptly named, this condition describes the outward turned position of the chick’s legs. Although
not often seen in penguins, this condition can result in serious and long‐term complications; there-
fore, early detection is important. The brooder or nest substrate should be textured enough so the
chick’s feet do not slip out from underneath it.