- Thread starter
- #11
ForFlocksSake
Songster
Thanks this is helpful! I'll go ahead and raise the lamp. I had actually lowered it to try at hit that magic 95 degree number, but what your saying makes sense. I'll also move the plate more centered. I never would have thought of them getting stuck!Some folks theorize they'll feather faster if exposed to cooler temps. I find they simply are hardier against temperature fluctuations.
The plate will be the main source of heat. Of course make sure it's working properly, it should be quite warm to the touch but not burning hot. You only need enough ambient heating to ensure the plate will work according to instructions, usually 50 or 60F.
I brood outdoors in late spring with a mama heating pad with temp ranges of mid 40s to mid 60s. No ambient heat (MHPs can work at lower temps). Chicks go straight from the feed store to the brooder, so around 2-3 days old. Even at that age they'll opt to spend a good amount of time away from the heat source, generally just going under it to warm up while napping, just as they would with a broody hen.
Also I'd check at how close/far the brooder plate is from the wall. If it's close (like 1/2", 1") I'd move it slightly further from the wall. Chicks are pros at finding ways to wedge themselves into tight spots. I lost one chick that got itself stuck in a gap and panicked to death.
Also about the save a chick- should I do both the probiotic and electrolytes when they arrive?