How big should my brooder be for 3 chicks?

[ahale15]

Hello all, we are new to chickens and are getting our 3 ladies soon. How big should our brooder be for 3 baby biff Orpington?

 

[GodLovesU]

I have used a 40-50 gallon container for more chicks than that.

 

[rosemarythyme]

Depending on how long you plan to keep them in the brooder, figure roughly at a minimum:

- by 2 weeks, 1/2 sq ft (floor space) per bird
- by 4 weeks, 1 sq ft per bird
- by 8 weeks, 2 sq ft per bird

I will say I think those minimums are pretty tight (especially as they get older) as chicks like to run about and play. I allocate about 2 sq ft per chick and they're fully moved out at around 4 weeks.