Chick brooder query!

[Celie64]

Hello all!
Just joined this and it's a great forum! I have 6 hens at the moment, all different breeds, about one year old, and in the next couple of weeks I will be getting 3 or 4 day old chicks to eventually add to my flock as have always wanted them but never had enough time until now...
I have a large wooden drawer (50x30'') which is perfect to use once I have made a lid, but will this be too big for when they are very young? Would I be better off using a small plastic tub to start with and transferring them to the large brooder once they are a few weeks old?
Also, if anyone has any advice about how to introduce them to my other hens, and what age to do so that would be great. They a currently ins huuuge outdoor run with 2 coops inside. Should I divide the run into 2 with one coop on each side so they can get used to each other before actually sharing the same space?

Thanks!

 

[redsoxs]

Greetings from Kansas, Celie64, and

! Pleased you joined our community! I think either will be okay. When they are very young they will likely congregate close to the heat lamp anyway so while there will be a lot of space, they will likely only use a little of it. Good luck to you!

 

[DDNONIN2016]

Hello and welcome....so glad you joined BYC

Good luck with your new little chicks. Hope they arrive safe and sound

 

[drumstick diva]

 

[Mr MKK FARMS]

Welcome to BYC!!!

Glad to have you aboard!!

 

[Celie64]

Thanks!
We will be picking them up this week hopefully!
Which is the best heat lamps and substrate for you guys? Ive heard sand is very good and easy to clean. Definately staying away from newspaper on its own of course.

 

[BantamFan4Life]

Welcome to BYC! Glad you joined us!