an apparatus for processing baby chicks in a hatchery comprises a turntable disposed concentrically within an annular conveyor . the center area of the turntable may be provided with a downwardly extending funnel , or provided with a funnel and an adjacent disposal system inlet feed channel . a conveyor is included for transporting chicks between the turntable and the annular conveyor . depending upon the particular chick processing sequence of operations , either or both the turntable and annular conveyor may be provided with a plurality of tray rings . in addition , the turntable is provided with debeaking mechanisms .