Worried about chick :(

[teg33]

My zebras have had a batch of 5 chicks, one of which worries me a little because No.1 e is so tiny, and No.2 he is always spending a lot of time on the ground while his siblings are cuddling up together. If it was warm weather, I wouldn't be so worried, but since the days and nights get pretty cold, Im just afraid he may die. Is there anything I can do for him?

[Harvey11]

I know what yoy mean, i have 12 baby zebs in the nesting boxes and 1 canary baby.All i can do is cover the cabinets and avairy up while its cold and hope for the best.

All will be ok.


Harv

[jusdeb]

You have 2 choices in my opinion ..

1/ Take the chick inside and hand rear whilst hoping for the best .
2/ Leave it up to mother nature and natural selection and still hope for the best .

Tough choices and ones most bird keepers have to make at some time or another .

[vettepilot_6]

3/ can you rig up a light for warmth?

[Myzomela]

Vettepilot's idea is the way to go. Just make sure the lamp cannot set anything on fire! If you have no lamp or heat source then maybe try a heatpad or even a hot-water bottle- just remember to change it before it goes cold. There are various microwavable heat pads available also- some are pet warmers and these can hold their heat for 24 hrs.

[SamDavis]

I assume they're outside, if so you can bring the liitle bloke inside in a warm carry cage at dusk each evening and them put him back in the aviary at first light in the morning. Use one of Myzo or Vette's ideas to keep him warm overnight. I've done this a few times with success (and a lot more times without success). Often the runt of the clutch will succumb whatever you do - sad, but that's life.

[jusdeb]

Adding warmth to the aviary is a good idea too . I was assuming it was urgent and being a long weekend you wouldn't have access to heating supplies .

[djb78]

I agree with Sam bring the little fellow in for the night if possible.

[teg33]

Thanks for everyone's suggestions! The little guy is finally having a go at flying up to sit with his siblings, after a few helps from me, and he is all fine now, thank goodness!