New to this! Heat lamp help.

[Mrs Vdb]

Hello! I am a preschool teacher with a failed hatch attempt (unless some hatch as a surprise after day 27)! I just picked up 4 one week old chicks to bring into school tomorrow so the kids aren't devastated. There is a HUGE metal brooding box at school with lamps that I would like to avoid using because of its size and because I only have four little chicks. I currently have them in a box with a regular gooseneck lamp with a red bulb in it for heat. Is this something that I can continue for the next two weeks? I want to make sure they are warm enough and I am getting some mixed information from what I am looking up. If I am able to use this "regular" lamp, what bulb so you reccomend?

 

[nuthatched]

The big brooder is better as they'll double in size every week, need room to get away from the heat and make cleaning less of a chore.
The gooseneck might not be rated for that heat.

 

[rosemarythyme]

Do you have a heating pad without auto shut off? Might consider a mama heating pad: https://www.backyardchickens.com/th...d-in-the-brooder-picture-heavy-update.956958/

 

[Tahai]

What is the temp under your lamp? I'm concerned it is too cold or too hot. Either will kill the chicks.

Does your school district have an FFA program ? If so, I advise reaching out to that teacher. If not, contact your local 4-H Educator to ask for guidance. Many county 4H programs have an 'embryology in the classroom' event, so the 4H Educator should be knowledgeable.

 

[762]

We use a reptile heating lamp with a ceramic bulb. Good for small areas and doesn't get nearly as hot. Perfect for 4 chicks.