May 23, 2002 Exercise, Exercise Chick #2 in marsh Photo WCEP Besides their normal running and playing, the chicks need regular, planned exercise to grow strong, straight legs and feet. They're given walks and swims each day. Without adequate exercise, the chicks are in danger of developing leg and toe problems from their rapid growth. The chicks grow fastest between 10 and 30 days of age. They may grow one-half inch and gain ten percent of their body weight each day! Imagine how huge you'd be if you grew that fast! After that, their body growth slows; there's less need for extra exercise as more of the chicks' energy goes into growing feathers. Dr. George Gee by Chick Swim Tank Photo Journey North Chick Exercise Pool at Patuxent Photo Journey North Older Chicks by Pond Photo WCEP Try This! Journaling Question How much would you weigh tomorrow if you gained at the same rate as a baby crane? How much heavier would you be in one week? Journey North is pleased to feature this educational adventure made possible by the Whooping Crane Eastern Partnership (WCEP). Copyright 2002 Journey North. All Rights Reserved. Please send all questions, comments, and suggestions to our feedback form