Brooder Question

[emilyc03]

Hello there! I was wondering if I could use a 25-35 gallon rubbermaid bin as a starting brooder. I want to keep around 4-5 chicks in it. If this is acceptable, when should I move them to something larger?

 

[Jensownzoo]

Hello there! I was wondering if I could use a 25-35 gallon rubbermaid bin as a starting brooder. I want to keep around 4-5 chicks in it. If this is acceptable, when should I move them to something larger? 

As long as you can provide a proper temperature gradient in it, then sure. They'll probably outgrow it in a week though.

 

[azygous]

Do you have a coop and run yet? If so, regardless of adult chickens, you can choose to brood right outdoors in a safe pen. I brood right in my covered, enclosed run with the heating pad system. There's no mess indoors, and no danger with heat lamps catching fire. Even if you're still experiencing cold temps, the chicks do just great in the cooler environment and the advantages are numerous for their development.

I cover the details in my essay about it linked below this post.

 

[azygous]

For anyone not being able to see the link to my article on brooding chicks outdoors, it's right there under "Articles by Azygous" above and below this post.

 

[hpierce88]

For anyone not being able to see the link to my article on brooding chicks outdoors, it's right there under "Articles by Azygous" above and below this post.

What a fabulous read. Thank you for sharing. This will be my second time around with chicks. Last time we had them in the house in a huge glass aquarium with a screened top. Between the noise and the space it took up, we aren't fond of the idea of having them in the house again. Knowing about your success makes me excited to try it myself. Thanks again.