Pinfeeding

Pinfeeding is a feeding technique primarily used in the care of newborn chicks, ducklings, and other small poultry or waterfowl hatchlings that cannot yet eat solid food or access their mother’s milk. The method involves manually feeding the young birds a nutrient-rich liquid formula using a small, blunt-tipped feeding needle or "pin," hence the name. This technique is essential when hand-rearing orphaned or premature hatchlings that lack maternal care.

The process begins by preparing a specialized chick starter formula, which is typically mixed with warm water to create a thin, pourable consistency. The formula is then drawn into a syringe or feeding needle, ensuring no air bubbles are present to prevent aspiration. The chick’s mouth is gently opened, and the needle is inserted just past the tongue, allowing the liquid to flow slowly into the esophagus. The process is repeated at regular intervals, usually every 1–2 hours for the first few days, gradually increasing the volume as the chick grows.

Pinfeeding requires precision to avoid overfeeding, which can lead to aspiration pneumonia, or underfeeding, which may cause malnutrition. The technique is most commonly used for species like quail, pheasants, and waterfowl, where natural brooding is unavailable. Proper hygiene is critical, as contaminated feeding tools can introduce infections. Over time, as the chicks develop, they transition to mashed food or crumbs before moving to solid feed.

While effective, pinfeeding demands patience and attention to detail. It is often supplemented with warmth, such as under a heat lamp or brooder, to mimic maternal incubation. Veterinary guidance is recommended for first-time handlers to ensure proper technique and health monitoring.