How to Care for Peacock Chicks – A Beginner’s Guide

Raising peacock chicks is a rewarding experience for poultry enthusiasts and backyard farmers alike. These vibrant birds bring beauty and excitement to any flock, but they require special care and attention, especially during their early stages of life. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to successfully care for peacock chicks, from hatching to maturity.

Understanding Peacock Chicks

Peacock chicks, also known as peachicks, are born with a unique set of needs compared to other poultry. They are delicate and require a warm, secure environment to thrive. Peachicks grow quickly, but their early development is critical for their long-term health and beauty.

Brooding Peacock Chicks

Setting Up the Brooder

• Temperature: Maintain a brooder temperature of 95°F for the first week, reducing it by 5°F each week until the chicks are fully feathered.

• Bedding: Use clean, dry bedding such as pine shavings to keep the brooder warm and dry.

• Ventilation: Ensure good air circulation to prevent respiratory issues, but avoid drafts.

Feeding Peacock Chicks

• Starter Feed: Provide a high-protein starter feed (24-28% protein) for the first few weeks.

• Water: Offer fresh, clean water at all times. Use shallow dishes to prevent drowning.

• Supplements: Add a small amount of grit and calcium to support healthy growth.

Housing and Safety

• Secure Enclosure: Protect peachicks from predators with a secure, enclosed brooder.

• Space: Allow enough room for chicks to move and exercise, but avoid overcrowding.

• Lighting: Provide a heat lamp for warmth, but ensure chicks have access to cooler areas to regulate their temperature.

Health and Maintenance

Common Health Issues

• Coccidiosis: Prevent this intestinal disease by keeping the brooder clean and dry. Use medicated feed if recommended by a veterinarian.

• Spraddle-Leg: This condition occurs when chicks’ legs splay out. Prevent it by providing a non-slip surface in the brooder.

Regular Checks

• Weight: Monitor the chicks’ weight to ensure healthy growth.

• Behavior: Watch for signs of illness, such as lethargy, loss of appetite, or unusual behavior.

Socialization and Handling

• Gentle Handling: Handle peachicks gently to build trust and reduce stress.

• Socialization: Allow chicks to interact with each other and with humans to promote healthy social development.

 

 

Transitioning to Adult Housing

• Feather Development: Once peachicks are fully feathered, they can be moved to outdoor housing.

• Gradual Transition: Introduce chicks to the outdoor environment gradually to prevent stress.

 

Raising Peacock Chicks for Show

• Grooming: Regular grooming helps maintain the chicks’ vibrant plumage.

• Training: Train chicks to be comfortable with handling and social interaction.

Conclusion

Raising peacock chicks requires dedication and attention to detail, but the rewards are well worth the effort. By providing a warm, safe environment, a balanced diet, and regular health checks, you can ensure your peachicks grow into healthy, beautiful adult peacocks. Whether you’re raising peacock chicks for show, breeding, or as pets, following these care guidelines will set you on the path to success.