Chick Quicks, Episode 2: Brooders for the Unprepared

Welcome to Chick Quicks, a series that chronicles the lessons I've learned as a chicken keeper — all in 5 minutes or less! Many topics will be geared towards novices and smaller flocks, with links included throughout each article for additional reading.



Worried this could happen to you? Don't be. Whether you need a brooder in a pinch or would rather not tango with 2x4s and Torx heads, I’ve got you covered with options that 1) are readily available with minimal setup, 2) help contain the inevitable dust, and 3) will please even the pickiest chicks. Jimmy included.

The MVP: 50+ Gallon Black and Yellow Tote



Short on time and cash? This heavy-duty storage tote can be found at most big box hardware stores. The listed capacity may vary, so find one that measures at least 20-inches wide x 40-inches long. This will comfortably hold a 10x10 heat plate with room for food, water, and a small perch. I do not recommend going any smaller, even for young chicks.

As for the lid, you can modify the one that comes with it. Strong snips or an electric tool will be needed to cut an opening in the plastic, which can then be secured and ventilated with lightweight plastic netting (found in most garden sections). Alternatively, grab some cheap clamps along with your plastic netting, then clamp the netting directly onto the rim of the tote. Chicks WILL start testing their flight skills at around 1 week-old, so make sure they can’t entangle themselves in the netted top. Personally, I prefer to use a wire shelf as a lid. It's easy to take on and off, plus I already have several lying around.


The Investment: Stock Tanks



Have strong arms and a healthy budget? Stock tanks are my go-to for housing chicks until they’re ready to move outside. The size is the biggest selling point, allowing for more enrichment, more play space, and more residents! I've used both 2x6-foot and 3x8-foot stock tanks. The latter is MASSIVE and also serves as an emergency shelter for up to four chickens. That said, this isn’t something that’s going to slot neatly into your home. My stock tanks are in the basement. A mudroom, garage, shed, or other outbuilding would work just as well.

Once again, I'm using wire shelving to cover the top, with two pieces overlapping front to back. You can see I have pipe insulation lining the rim of the stock tanks; this is to minimize clanking from taking the shelves on and off.

You can find stock tanks at hardware stores or your local farm store (ex. Tractor Supply). If you don't have a pickup truck for transport, these stores will often deliver to your home for a fee.


The Newcomer: BUCATSTATE Hamster Enclosure 3.0

In full transparency, I have not used this as a brooder yet, though I intend to for my next group of chicks. The overall size is slightly larger than the tote, at around 24-inches wide x 48-inches long. The biggest perk, however, is the clear acrylic sides. You’ll get a 360° view of your little nuggets, and that increased visibility can help them become more accustomed to your presence and movements. It also comes with a side access door for gentler interactions that don't involve reaching overhead. All of this could amount to friendlier birds, and who doesn't want chicken buddies?

The Bucatstate has ventilation grooves on two sides, as well as on the lids, though I'd prefer it to be a bit more generous. My intent is to create custom lids using hardware cloth and scrap wood. The assembled enclosure weighs about 35-lbs, and wheels can be purchased for extra maneuverability.

Sadly, the Bucatstate only seems to be available on Amazon, meaning you’ll need to wait a few days for delivery.


Looking for even more ideas? Check out:

• kathyinmo's Cardboard Brooder
• peachRN's Camping Tent Brooder
• Tcooper75228's Pet Pen Brooder

Thank you for reading! If you have questions, leave them in the comments section, and I'll be happy to answer. Up next... Episode 3: Chick Crumble Crisis!