Open Contest Creative Brooder Contest—17th Annual BYC Easter Hatch-Along

[Cloverfluff]

I used my dog's old crate. I started them in one of my dog food boxes when I first purchased them. The lamp was attached to the top of the kennel and they had a cloth draped on the outside to help keep the warmth contained. Once they got big enough to jump up and down on the sides of the box, I removed it and the heat lamp. Mostly because once kept trying to jump on the heat lamp. I added the perches at that time to give them some practice. I would recommended a barrier at the base against the bars to try and reduce the amount of shavings that get kicked out.

 

[thecatumbrella]

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View attachment 4319189

I used my dog's old crate. I started them in one of my dog food boxes when I first purchased them. The lamp was attached to the top of the kennel and they had a cloth draped on the outside to help keep the warmth contained. Once they got big enough to jump up and down on the sides of the box, I removed it and the heat lamp. Mostly because once kept trying to jump on the heat lamp. I added the perches at that time to give them some practice. I would recommended a barrier at the base against the bars to try and reduce the amount of shavings that get kicked out.

The cage walls are great for wedging in practice perches!

 

[Debbie292d]

I wasn't even thinking about this. Good point!

I want to do some experimenting with my next group of chicks. I know I wanted a clear-sided enclosure (rather than the black tote I normally use), but I'll have to think about raising it up as well. Animals (and young children) seem to appreciate when you're at their level, for sure.

You could get a table about 3' off the ground from Goodwill or a Habitat for Humanity store. Otherwise, two sawhorses and a piece of plywood would work.

I've learned to start talking (or singing) before you get close to where they are. They learn to expect you to show up, and they're calmer.

 

[Cloverfluff]

Raising it up was a recommendation I had seen as well, but was unable to implement this time. It probably would have made socializing them easier. It was difficult to get down on the floor every time to try and get them used to me. I kind of gave up towards the end.

 

[Naerwyn]

Everyone's brooders are so inspiring and creative!

 

[thecatumbrella]

I've learned to start talking (or singing) before you get close to where they are. They learn to expect you to show up, and they're calmer.

I do this too! I keep them in my office for the 1st week, which is pretty private, so I let them know I'm coming from the hall.

It was difficult to get down on the floor every time to try and get them used to me. I kind of gave up towards the end.

Every time I have chicks, I trash my back scooting/kneeling/bending to get to their level. A labor of love.