First timer brooder box

[no1hilbily]

first time making brood box getting chicks tomorrow any ideas or comments

 

[SilkieChickenLover336]

if i was you i would use a large plastic storage bin instead of a box because you will need to replace the box because the poop with get of the sides and we all knoiw you vant clean card board boxes. The rest is fine. Just add paper towels, food, and water and you got your self a nice brooder

 

[carladababe]

How many chicks to you plan on keeping in there?

 

[no1hilbily]

thank you

 

[no1hilbily]

im buying 10 but can add box to the side of that one it has cut outs in them

 

[TigerLilly]

I dont know if your city/county provides recycling bins (mine does), but I found them to make eggcellant brooders! At least until they start flying out of the bin...

 

[CathyM]

I agree with plastic being better. Also, I believe, less chance of catching fire -- those heat lamps are HOT, especially for that first couple weeks of 90deg+ temps. I had cardboard last year for my first batch... and it is a terrible mess within a couple weeks of pooping and spilling water (okay, I'm clumsy

). This year I decided the plastic storage totes were sooo worth it - and can be reused for something else (like storing the feed).
Plus, they get big fast! Here are two of mine at about 5 weeks -- see how big they are even compared to a wheeled plastic storage bin? (their brooder)

Best of luck on your first flock!!

 

[carladababe]

I ask because chicks need at least 1/2 square inch per chick for the first few weeks, with the height 18 inches tall. I have 11 chicks that are 2 1/2 weeks old and they are out growing their 5'X2' plastic tote (from Wal Mart) to something bigger and taller. They grow right before your eyes. Also, how stable is that lamp? Can you raise and lower it in order to adjust the temperature inside. And how safe is that over cardboard that could possibly catch fire?

 

[no1hilbily]

thank you might look for a tote

 

[N&MSchroeder]

Get a clear one so that you can watch the chicks!