But, ditto what Huntmaster says--that's only 1 sq ft per chick, I think that's good for 2-4 weeks.I think all of your replies are very informative and helpful!! I think I've settled on building a brooder from plywood, 3' L x 2' D x 12" T for 6 chickens. That should be plenty of space to take them up to 8 weeks old or so, at which time it will be warm outside and I can move them to their coop. I may block off half the length at first until they need more space. It will have a lid with some hardware cloth for ventilation. I've decided to go with an Ecoglow 600 brooder. I'm going to put them in the garage where it doesn't get too cold. Our garage isn't heated, but our HVAC guy said it's "conditioned". I don't know what exactly that means, but it's always warmer in the winter than outside, but not as warm as the inside. I'm going to monitor the temps in the garage the next few days to see how the temps fluctuate. The brooder will be near a window so the chicks will get daytime light. Do I need a small light for them at night? I welcome your feedback. I really appreciate all the input I received!!