24 Inch Walls - When will chicks' escape ?

[Fred's Hens]

Quote:
Biggest tip for new chicken ranchers would be get a huge box!!!

Seriously,, bigger boxes are required. Go get a sheet of OSB at Home Depot and build a box that is 2x4 feet with 2 foot sides, minimum. You'll still need a screen door or similar for a lid. Some use an appliance cardboard box from a washer or refrigerator.

I just use my boxed utility trailer, because it is essentially a 5x8 plywood box. Have fun.

 

[Judy]

They will need about one sq ft per chick by the time they are 8 weeks old, if you keep them inside that long. Most breeds will be feathered at 6 weeks and can go in the coop then.

Here's a thread on brooders: https://www.backyardchickens.com/forum/viewtopic.php?id=6233

There's also a great sticky at the beginning of the Raising Baby Chicks forum that talks about reasons they die young. You can glance at it and see that they will tolerate much cooler temps than the usual 95 then down 5 every week, especially during the day.

I have had broody raised chicks outdoors all day in 40-50 degree temps, going under mama at night to keep warm, and they are quite healthy.