WHOOPING CRANE CHICK: DAY 07 |
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Chick
rearing starts at 7 A.M. Including our chick, we're raising 16 whoopers
now, from 2 days old to 23 days old. They need to be fed, kept clean,
exercised, and some need to be medicated. This chick is 22 days. Her legs
are long, strong but fragile, and she doesn't like being held. Dr. Bright
holds a syringe full of fluids and medication that the chick needs because
of a respiratory problem. But not even crane chicks like needles, so Matt,
who is holding the bird, has to handle the crane chick carefully so that
she won't injure herself while the vet gives her the shot. The trick to
holding a delicate but strong crane chick is to let them move enough but
not too much. It takes experience and a special sensitivity to each
individual bird. Medications are usually given at least twice a day.
First, in the morning and then again twelve hours later.
Our chick has a name! The vote was close, but you've named him Patuxent. Tux's weight has been gaining steadily. He's up to 179 grams! No one has to help him eat or drink anymore, or help him find his way outside. His legs are longer, and it takes two hands to hold him securely. He can see really well now and has started catching his own food outside. Tux has become quite an independent young crane from the almost-helpless chick of just a few days ago. Check our site tomorrow! |
Cool Facts:
See this page for more
cool facts each day. |
Click here to ask questions about our chick or Patuxent's crane program. The name selected with a majority of votes is: Patuxent (for more information about the voting, click here) |
Hatch Day (Click on numbered links to view other egg (negative numbers) and chick days).
To check on updates after day 14, go to whooper's
home.