How many chicks could I put in here?

[Thespeckledchick]

I built a 22.5 sq foot brooder with 1/2 by1/2 hardware cloth floors and 18 inch sides. How many chicks could I put in here?

 

[ashlierami]

I built a 22.5 sq foot brooder with 1/2 by1/2 hardware cloth floors and 18 inch sides. How many chicks could I put in here?

How old are the chicks?

 

[Thespeckledchick]

They will be about 1 week when I get them, and will be there for 6 or 7 weeks.

 

[Thespeckledchick]

I will cover the top with a tarp

 

[ashlierami]

I will cover the top with a tarp

From week 1 to 6 I would assume 10 to 15 would be alright in there. That also depends on their breed and how big they become by 6 weeks. Just by the looks and dimensions you gave that is my guess. The older and larger they get the less comfortable. They will also become bored as they grow up so give them plenty of entertainment to avoid picking on each other.

 

[Lazy Farmer]

I have had 50-70 chicks in that square footage- give or take. But hatch-lings. They grow fast and so does the feces. They are soon divided into separate quarters as they grow if not sold.
If 6 to 7 weeks as you say. 10 would be comfortable. Btw, they will fly out easily with that height of walls. Clip that tarp tight.

 

[Thespeckledchick]

Thanks for the advice!