Friend w/new chicks - What temp for brooding? 4 have died.

[thebritt]

Newbie friend has lost 4 of 14 couple-day-old chicks (from feed store). What temp for brooder is ideal? Thanks in advance!

 

[MrsChickendad]

95º first week, drop by 5º each week thereafter. If they are huddled together and cheeping, they are cold. If they are spread out all over, they are too warm.

 

[jenesis536]

1 day old should be 95, 1 week old 90 and then drop 5 degrees per week. That is the "guideline". However, I brought my 3 day olds and 1 week olds home and my brooder was 87 and they were fine. Even at a few weeks they were ranging between 75-80 because the temp wasn't staying stable. I've had them outside for a few hours while cleaning the brooder and it was only 70 degrees. They were fine.

It also depends on the size of the brooder. If it is "guideline" temp but small surface area, they might not hav anywhere to hide and cool down. It's best to have one spot that is warm and room for them to hide and get away from the heat if they need to.

 

[thebritt]

Thanks for the quick responses! I've passed on this info - I also found info in the "brooding" section (duh

), and I've shared this site w/the friend, so we may have a new member soon!