Do you remove chicks to clean brooder?

[Folly's place]

Either way is good. Mine are only in the brooder for a bit over two weeks, and I only get any wet shavings out, and add new over old otherwise. They get handled some, especially to make sure there's no pasty butt going on, or any other possible issues.
Mary

 

[Sonya9]

I was thinking that as well. I also don't want to terrify them but I guess catching them and moving them would be better than the cleaning with them in there.

If the brooder is big enough then leaving a box in the corner that they can run into, then moving the whole box may be less traumatic. Feeding them treats in the box would ensure their cooperation.

 

[Chickassan]

I take them out, having me catch them is less terrifying than seeing the bedding come and go.
I do handle my chicks a lot though.

 

[Bama4545]

I have been trying to let them get comfortable in their new home with out handling them too much but I guess now is the time for me to get comfortable with me picking them up.

 

[GC-Raptor]

I brood 5 to 7 Chicks in a 18"x 36"x 18"h plastic tote.
When I clean, I put chicks in a smaller cardboard box.
Remove feeder, waterer and branch.
I carry outside and dump in the woods and wipe clean with paper towel. If soiled, I hose out and dry before filling with clean shavings.

5 days old, May 2. GC

 

[Chickassan]

Yep, it will make everything so much easier in the future after they're accustomed to you handling them.

I have been trying to let them get comfortable in their new home with out handling them too much but I guess now is the time for me to get comfortable with me picking them up.

 

[Folly's place]

Depending on breed and individual personalities, many chickens will never want to be held, ever. They will come around and 'hang out' nearby, but as a prey species, have a real aversion to being held, and it's all normal.
Mary