Graphic made in Canva by Fluco Journalism.

The FCHS Greenhouse is holding more life than usual, with the arrival of 25 chicks the week of March 16. Agriculture teacher Russell Jennings’ classes have raised chicks for years, but as they age, it is time to raise new chickens.

Some of Jennings’ 2nd block Intro to Agriculture students, as well as Future Farmers of America (FFA) students, are responsible for changing the chicks’ bedding, fixing their water, and playing with them so they become accustomed to humans. “If you want to raise your own chickens, it helps you understand how chicks grow, change, and act as they get older,” said sophomore London Richardson.

Over the weekends and school breaks, some FFA students come in to take care of the chicks. For now, they are kept in a heated container in the greenhouse, with plans to gradually introduce them into the chicken coop with the older chickens. Even at this stage, their personalities are already showing. “They are a mean bunch. They peck at each other, but also at everything, really, especially rings. We call them ‘the nugget gang’ because they look like little nuggets,” said Richardson.

The chickens tend to attract students and teachers alike, clucking their way through the quiet near the back parking lot of FCHS. With their fluffy feathers and small size, the chickens quickly capture the attention of anyone passing by. Despite their appeal, not all of the chicks have survived. There were originally 25, including a free “bonus” chick who was sickly when he arrived and died the next day.

Aside from being a source of excitement in the Greenhouse, the chicks also serve an agricultural purpose. As they mature into full-grown chickens, they will begin laying eggs. “The older chickens are starting to peck at their own eggs, which may mean they are getting to a point where they will stop laying them. So some of the chicks will eventually take their places. Mr. Jennings is selling 6-12 of them for $10 each,” said Richardson.

Aside from being a source of excitement in the Greenhouse, the chicks also serve an agricultural purpose. As they mature into full-grown chickens, they will begin laying eggs. “The older chickens are starting to peck at their own eggs, which may mean they are getting to a point where they will stop laying them. So some of the chicks will eventually take their places. Mr. Jennings is selling 6-12 of them for $10 each,” said Richardson.