brooder set up

[stcroixusvi]

Hi all, We are expecting our first shipment of chicks. What do you recommend to put in the bottom of the brooder? I've read about chopped straw, paper towels, etc, but am curious to know what you think works best, and is easiest to keep clean.

Thanks!

 

[WallTenters]

Pine shavings all the way. You can put newspaper on top of that for the first day or so (pack the shavings down with your hand so the newspaper isn't so hilly) so the chicks get good strong legs.

The pine bedding pellets also work okay, but I prefer the shavings myself.

 

[stcroixusvi]

Thanks! Very helpful!