How old can a chick be without heat

[Chickengirlfun1]

I have a three week old chick and I was wondering when he can be without a heat lamp? Thanks

 

[nj2wv]

welcome to BYC !!

If they are panting they are too hot. If they huddle they are too cold. Watch them to see if they are always warm then you can remove it. Usually when fully feathered.

 

[TheRambler]

Since you started with a heat lamp you will need to slowly ween them off of it. They typically need to adjust to the normal outside temps and be mostly feathered. Starting without a heat lamp and using other methods for heat generally causes them to be a little hardier and feather out faster.

Raise the heat lamp a little every few days so as the lower the temp in the brooder by 5 degrees or so a week until you reach your normal temps which is usually around 65-70.

 

[Fancychooklady]

At 3 weeks of age the temp inside the brooder should be 80-85 , once the chicks are fully feathered and provided your outside temps are mild , they can go outside . I start taking mine out during the day for short periods from week 2 and gradually increase the exposure time . This link has a temperature chart that you can use as a guide.

http://www.the-chicken-chick.com/2012/03/baby-chick-basics-what-you-need-to-know.html