Why Chicks Die in the First Two Weeks: Common Causes and How to Prevent Them

The first two weeks of a chick’s life are the most critical stage in poultry farming. During this period, chicks are extremely delicate and vulnerable to a range of factors that can easily lead to high mortality rates. Understanding the causes of early chick deaths and how to prevent them is key to raising a healthy flock.

1. Poor Chick Quality at Hatch

Mortality in the brooder often begins with the quality of the chicks you receive from the hatchery. Healthy chicks should be active, clean, dry, and alert, with bright eyes and well-healed navels.
Chicks that appear weak, sleepy, or have unhealed or infected navels may be suffering from navel infections, often caused by poor hatchery hygiene or unabsorbed yolk sacs. Such infections can quickly spread and result in early death.

2. Poor Brooding Conditions

Environmental stress is one of the biggest killers of chicks during the first two weeks. If the brooder temperature is too cold, chicks will crowd together, risking suffocation and chilling. If it’s too hot, they will move away from the heat source, become dehydrated, and lose their appetite.

To prevent this:

• Pre-heat the brooder 24 hours before chick arrival to ensure the temperature is stable (around 32–35°C for the first week).

• Use dry, clean bedding and ensure there are no drafts.

• Provide sufficient ventilation without exposing chicks to cold air currents.

3. Inadequate Nutrition and Water

Newly hatched chicks have very limited energy reserves. They need easy access to clean, warm water and starter feed immediately after arrival. Offering warm water mixed with glucose helps restore energy lost during transportation, while adding a chick formula containing vitamins and antibiotics helps strengthen immunity and stimulate appetite.

4. Poor Hygiene and Disease Management

A dirty brooder is a breeding ground for bacteria and disease. Always disinfect the brooder and equipment before introducing new chicks. Regularly remove wet litter and droppings to maintain a clean environment. Preventing early infections like omphalitis (navel ill), coccidiosis, and E. coli can save a large percentage of your flock.

✅ Key Takeaways

• Always start with high-quality, healthy chicks from a reputable hatchery.

• Maintain proper brooder temperature and hygiene at all times.

• Provide warm, clean water with glucose and vitamins immediately after chick arrival.

• Monitor your chicks daily for signs of weakness, inactivity, or crowding.

By paying close attention to chick quality, brooder management, and nutrition, you can significantly reduce early chick mortality and set the foundation for a healthy, productive flock.