Do I have everything I need to start?

[blackdog043]

If you can't find one big box, you might be able to get a few about the same size and tape them together. I used cardboard without any water problems.

 

[jeria]

Might have to do that, thanks. For a couple weeks mine should work it's about 4x2 fro 4 chicks: then move to a bigger one.

 

[jcskowronek]

those are some really good points.i didnt realize that people sucessfully brood in cardboard. learn something new everyday i guess!

 

[jeria]

Chicks arrived today, active, eating and drinking water with the nutra-drench added. They seem to be doing OK wandering around their space and not huddling much but mostly staying at the warmer end of my box unless eating or drinking. They seem very attached to each other after their long trip in a small box.

 

[blackdog043]

That's great! Your brooder set up is working well.

 

[jeria]

That's great! Your brooder set up is working well.

Chicks seem happy, chattering at each other and moving about. they have even hopped on my hand a few times. so all good. Am mostly just letting them settle in. They seem to have become friends in the shipping.

 

[jeria]

Just a bit ago checked chicky butts. Ugg 2 had some built up poop, so they are now cleaned off, not sure if it was simply stuck to surrounding fluff or on the vent itself. If any other newbie is reading this I would add apple cider vinegar to the supply list. From what I've read some added to their water is beneficial in preventing pasteing up. Off to the store to get some and added the bowl of chick grit to their box.