Q: Can I combine different breeds in a flock, or will they not get along?
A: Go ahead and combine! One bird will be at the top of the pecking order and one will be at the bottom. This is true whether you get aggressive birds (like Old English Games) or really docile birds (like Silkies). You'll have a top head that "rules the roost"
Q: How much food should I give my baby chicks?
A: As much as you want to give them. Chicks only eat what they need.
Q: Is "pasting up" REALLY a deadly condition?
A: Yes, it's when droppings cake up and block a baby chick's vent opening, preventing them from passing any more droppings, and it must be dealt with imediately. Apply a warm, wet paper towel to their rears and then use a toothpick to gently clear the blockage, or in severe cases dunk the chick's rear in warm water so it softens up enough to remove it. Dry her off and return her to the brooder kit with the other chicks, and keep an eye on her in the coming days to make sure the problem doesn't return.