Hi Ladies, My students have had a very successful hatch in the classroom this week. We have 18 bantam chicks that are winning the hearts of all these tough middle schoolers. However, one of the hatchlings appears to be having difficulty stretching out one of his legs to take a step. The leg looks like it is formed correctly. He is a feather-legged heavier breed, possibly a brahma. Anyway, all the heavier breed chicks have to work a day or so to develop their muscles to walk well. This little one isn't more than 24 hours old but I can tell it has problems. Any ideas? suggestions? Cures?
I've heard of people making a "splint" out of a band-aid for spraddle leg chicks. I've never dealt with it myself tho. Sounds like you put the sticky ends of the band aid around the chicks legs, with the pad in the middle. It helps their legs stay in the right position for walking. Don't put it too tight, it will only need to stay for a day or two, and most of the chicks peck it off or wiggle out of the splint. The people at backyardchickens.com may be able to help a bit more, lots of bird savy people there. Good Luck!
Thanks Alicia, I have a few chicks that I am watching for spraddle leg but they seem to be getting stronger leg muscles. This poor hatching doesn't appear to be able to flex the lower joint so he lifts his leg to the side like a snowshoe. He isn't very active and I am afraid this is a handicap he will not be able to overcome. Meg
Hatchling leg
Posted - Apr 20 2010 : 09:37:19 AM
