Brooder for 6 silkies

[joeyfender]

I just ordered three patridge and 3 black silkie chicks from Ideal Poultry. For a brooder I was thinking of a 50 gallon Rubbermaide tub and organic, soft bedding. Of course I will have the heat lamp, water, Chick Starter. Any suggestions?

 

[scratch'n'peck]

Sounds good. You may want a thermometer to make sure the heat lamp is providing the right level of heat. If you have any other pets you want to keep of of the brooder, then a screen for the top doesn't hurt. Have fun with your silkies!

 

[howfunkyisurchicken]

My brooder is a 46 gallon rubbermaid tote. It works very well. I purchased the matching top with it and cut a round circle on one end and a large square window on the opposite end. The circle is for the heat lamp, the window for ventilation. On the same side as the window, I cut another large opening so I could look at them. I drilled small holes around each opening and zip tied hardware clothe over the holes. It works great. I don't use a thermometer. The chicks will tell you if they're comfy. If they're huddled under the lamp chirping loudly they're cold. If they're as far away from the lamp as possible and panting they're hot. If they're moving freely thru the brooder and chirping softly they're content.
I use a thin plank of wood to put my feeder and waterer on to help keep shavings out, works pretty well. I also feed my Silkies a higher protein gamebird feed instead of the normal starter/grower to keep them in tip top condition.
Silkies are fantastic little birds, you'll LOVE them! Good luck with your chicks!
Nikki