Are our chicks too cold?

[wordgirl]

The chicks are five weeks today. So, I've brought the temp down – I think it's about 72 degrees in there right now, but it will probably drop a few degrees overnight (our house temperature varies quite a bit). The chicks don't seem freezing (they aren't staying awake, complaining) but they're sleeping closer together and seem a little chilly. Will they be okay, or should I give them a little more heat? I don't want them to get cold.

Thanks!

 

[sealsandwich]

I think they are great at five weeks. The snuggles will keep them through the night. You'll know it if they are miserable.

 

[dancingbear]

If they pack together and pile up, they're too cold. If they're just touching, or snuggling a bit, they may be a tad cool, but probably ok. If they're spread out they're warm, if they're all as far apart as they can get, they're too warm.

 

[wordgirl]

Thanks – they did fine without the brooder lamp for a night, but I've decided to keep it on most nights just to make sure they're comfortable – they have room to move if they want to. Thanks again!