Causes of 1-Day-Old Chick Falling on Its Back

Raising baby chicks is a delight for many poultry farmers. However, the experience can be challenging when the chicks start exhibiting unusual behavior such as falling on their backs. This behavior is not normal, and it is a sign that something is wrong. Several factors can cause a 1-day-old chick to fall on its back, including weakness in leg muscles, nutritional deficiencies, genetic predisposition, inadequate incubation temperature, infection or disease, hatchery mistakes, improper handling, overcrowding in brooder, stress in brooder, injury during transport, and predatory attacks.

Weakness in Leg Muscles

Weakness in leg muscles is one of the most common causes of chicks falling on their backs. It can be caused by several factors, including genetic defects, poor nutrition, and inadequate incubation temperature. When the leg muscles are weak, the chicks find it challenging to stand and walk, and they may fall on their backs. The condition can be corrected by providing the chicks with a balanced diet and ensuring that the incubation temperature is optimal.

Nutritional Deficiencies

Nutritional deficiencies can cause a wide range of problems in chicks, including weakness, stunted growth, and falling on their backs. Chicks require a balanced diet that provides them with all the necessary nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, and proteins. A deficiency in any of these nutrients can cause health problems that affect the chicks’ ability to stand and walk. To prevent nutritional deficiencies, farmers should provide their chicks with a balanced diet and ensure that they have access to clean drinking water at all times.