Help! We need a different heat source

[WhitneyShaffley]

Help!

New member here! We are raising our first chicks, and there is a steep learning curve. We started out with a heat lamp, but now after reading about the fire danger and behaviorial issues I want to swap to a heating pad. I have one that can stay on constantly, and I have read about how to fashion it in their brooder.

My question is, how do I show them that is their heat source? They are pretty skiddish and I worry they will get cold because they will avoid the heat. Any tips? Has anyone switched the heat source 2 weeks in?

Quote

 

[0die]

I don't think there will be a problem...they will find the heat and decide where they wanna be,

 

[rosemarythyme]

Once you have the heat pad in place, I'd pick them up and place them under it. Expect them to pop out. Important thing is to show them where it's warm, they should figure it out from there.

I would keep an eye on them to make sure they're using it, in case you have a chick that's a bit slow to figure things out.

 

[aart]

Here's a nice informative post about using a heat plate:
https://www.backyardchickens.com/th...my-brooder-plans.1293399/page-6#post-21053270

 

[WhitneyShaffley]

Once you have the heat pad in place, I'd pick them up and place them under it. Expect them to pop out. Important thing is to show them where it's warm, they should figure it out from there.

I would keep an eye on them to make sure they're using it, in case you have a chick that's a bit slow to figure things out.

We do have a chick that doesnt seem to know what to do. I have placed her under multiple times thru the day. The other 4 got it quickly and are happy, but she seems to lack instinct. Not sure what to do from here.

 

[aart]

Not sure what to do from here.

Keep pushing her under there...hold her there until she feels the heat.
Might let her get cold first.

 

[WhitneyShaffley]

Keep pushing her under there...hold her there until she feels the heat.
Might let her get cold first.

Will do, thank you for the help.

 

[Willow77]

Mine seem to lay under the heat then not then under it. I am trusting they know when they are cold or warm. Just letting instinct take over.