do you need a brooder/heat lamp?

[duckduckgose]

all my life despite what others have told me i have successfully raised/kept ducklings keets ect in a cardboard box inside but now i am wondering whether using a brooder or heat lamp has any added benefits or wether its worth getting one

 

[oldhenlikesdogs]

Depends where you are at and what the ambient temperatures are. If your house is warm enough extra heat may not be needed. Some people keep their houses in the 80's for temperatures.

Very young poultry cannot regulate their own body heat for the first few weeks. They can become chilled if not kept warm enough. Usually they go under the mom to warm up. If there are enough of them they can possibly keep each other warm in a warmer environment.

 

[chickens really]

I think it all depends on what species your raising too. Chicks need more heat than Ducklings do. I use a Brooder with a heat lamp and only heat The sleeping area. Also I only use a 175watt heat bulb.