Brooder size

[toyzbox]

How big of a brooder do I need for 20 chicks? They are all standard size (no bantams).
Also, any suggestions on what to use?

 

[JenMT]

I used at 3 X 5 horse water trough and they were able to stay in that for several...6-7 weeks. You could use a rubbermaid storage container or any cardboard box until you find something larger and more perm. My girlfriend got a refridgerator box from an appliance store and it was huge! I think that they need 6 inches per chick for the first week and then need a sq ft per chick after that. Good luck to you and your new chicks!

 

[~*Sweet Cheeks*~]

I too used a HUGE stock tank (169 gal) for ten chicks. Got a little tight when they reached 7 wks when I moved the stock tank out to their 12 x 12' coop. They still like to sleep in the tank at night. I have a 2 x 4" roost inside it and three 2 x 6" sitting on top that they like to roost on.

I continue with the 250 watt heat lamp because night time lows are 30-40's.

The HUGE fridge box sounds great if you have the room for them. When your 20 get to be 3 wks or so you may need two of them.

Red heat lamp so they can sleep and won't pick on each other.

Best of luck with your babies.

 

[toyzbox]

So the best thing to do is figure 1 sq ft per chick from the start and they will last for up to 6 weeks? If you have the room for it...
I was going to put them in a garden tub that we never use and I think it measures about 54 x 54.