What wattage for a ceramic heater bulb?

[nuthatched]

Hi there,
I'm trying to decide which way to brood my chicks coming in May.
I'm trying to decide between a reptile heater bulb- what wattage is best?
Or a momma heating pad, or should it be a more ambient heat?
can I use a reptile heating pad such as this one.
https://www.amazon.com/Tikaton-Reptile-Heat-Pad-Temperature/dp/B0813CQ4C9/ref=mp_s_a_1_4?crid=2VDO8SR07Z5O4&keywords=reptile+heating+pad&qid=1649886678&sprefix=reptile,aps,308&sr=8-4
It will probably be in the 30's- 40's at night by then, day time - 60's.
Thank you!

 

[Mamatomany123]

I used the heat plate once and lost a chick so I went back to the heat lamp. If you're brooding in the coop then I suggest the lamp for a while because if the chicks wonder too far they won't be able to see where the heat is at night.

 

[jreardon1918]

We moved our chicks to the outdoor run when they were about a week old. The night temps have been high 30s F. Days have been 45-70. We are using MHP on low setting. They are thriving.

 

[nuthatched]

I used the heat plate once and lost a chick so I went back to the heat lamp. If you're brooding in the coop then I suggest the lamp for a while because if the chicks wonder too far they won't be able to see where the heat is at night.

That's a good point, I wonder if I should have a little night light.