My 9 chicks are 2 weeks old now and I have a few questions.
1) The height of the 75watt bulb being used is the same as the day I brought them home because they have kept a fairly regular sleeping pattern underneath. Not directly under it but in the general area with a distinct open area directly underneath. I've tried raising it or a 60watt bulb but they all crowd in underneath telling me they are too cold so I change it back. Should I just keep this up until they decide they are ready?
2) They are in a long plastic tub right now, but they are quickly becoming too big. I'm going to build a 3.5' x 4.5' brooder for them. They will probably be inside until mid to late april because the snow is still 2 feet deep and I'm still experiencing negative temperatures. How high should I make the brooder. I was thinking of making it 2' at one end and 3' at the other so my 1 year old can walk up and see. however if 2' is enough i could make the whole thing that height simplifying construction.
Your thoughts are appreciated, thanks
1) The height of the 75watt bulb being used is the same as the day I brought them home because they have kept a fairly regular sleeping pattern underneath. Not directly under it but in the general area with a distinct open area directly underneath. I've tried raising it or a 60watt bulb but they all crowd in underneath telling me they are too cold so I change it back. Should I just keep this up until they decide they are ready?
2) They are in a long plastic tub right now, but they are quickly becoming too big. I'm going to build a 3.5' x 4.5' brooder for them. They will probably be inside until mid to late april because the snow is still 2 feet deep and I'm still experiencing negative temperatures. How high should I make the brooder. I was thinking of making it 2' at one end and 3' at the other so my 1 year old can walk up and see. however if 2' is enough i could make the whole thing that height simplifying construction.
Your thoughts are appreciated, thanks