Cackle hatchery's Hatchery Surprise- Anybody got this before?

[hydroswiftrob]

So I search for a thread about Cackle Hatchery to see what kind of reputation they have, start reading, and it looks like everyone is pleased. I love the website they have, and just ordered a catalog. I have over 200 birds sitting in my cart right now (mostly meaties), just wanted to confirm that they are the real deal.

Now I read about this surprise grab bag and want one of them.

I was able to pass this by on their website, but coming here really makes me want to order one. Doh! Thanks for the help guys!

 

[Chickerdoodle13]

As I said before, cackle is excellent. You will be very pleased with your order!

 

[missnu01]

I literally don't know if I can stand the waiting on new chicks...Eggciting.

 

[Mac14]

I literally don't know if I can stand the waiting on new chicks...Eggciting.

Me too! I'm getting a couple in March. CAN'T WAIT!!!

 

[oldrooster]

got my catalog this week.....

 

[popsicle]

For those of you who have gotten this bargain, what kind of brooder set up did you have?

Did you have a couple large brooders? One? What did you do about turkeys and waterfowl with the chickens?

We've got a large brooder that should be able to handle 40 chicks, but I'll need to get building another one if the turkeys and waterfowl will potentially be a problem. I'm probably going to build one anyhow since I assume they will get too big too fast. I'll get something nice built, and then not get any turkeys or geese!

 

[SewChaos]

My plan: Mine all get brooded outside. I have an eco-glow brooder, a heat lamp and a couple of seedling heat mats I use for warmth.

I have a 6*8 hoop house covered in wire and a tarp. I'll divide it with chicken wire and put the chickens and turkey and waterfowl in separate sections once they get slightly bigger.

 

[popsicle]

My plan: Mine all get brooded outside. I have an eco-glow brooder, a heat lamp and a couple of seedling heat mats I use for warmth.

I have one on backorder that I'm very excited to try--if it ever gets shipped. I'm only getting the 20, but might end up getting two, or I'll have to resort to a heat lamp. The brooder will be in an unheated shed (also where the coop is) which is the main reason I'm waiting until April to get the birds--I've read that the Eco-Glows don't work so well if it's too cold.

What is your experience with how many birds the Eco-Glow can effectively brood and for how long?

My dilemma with this "Hatchery Surprise" is that I have no idea how many birds I might end up with! Fortunately I'm already set up to raise 40 for at least the first few weeks--I'd have to make a bigger grow-out pen if I end up with that many that I keep.

 

[SewChaos]

I have the 20, and it was pretty crowded with 25 chicks. Outside if it gets really cold I put the seedling heat mat under the eco-glow and it works really well. My Mr. doesn't like using the heatlamps because of the fire risk, but since they're going to be outside, I might need to use one for the ducks and Turkeys.

 

[luvmyEs]

I wish I had room for this special! So jealous of you who do! One day....