How to tell if chicks are cold?

[kdubs518]

I just picked up 6 fuzzy babies at Rural King, I'm using the heating pad cave brooder method that I found on this forum. My question is, how do I tell if they are cold -- and too hot for that matter? It doesn't feel like the heating pad is putting off much heat. Though they are all snuggled under asleep. Maybe I'm just being a nervous new mom. I don't want to wake up to dead chicks.
Thanks!

 

[Ol Grey Mare]

If they are too hot they will leave the cave - if they are too cold you will hear distressed peeping - the fact that they are snuggled up asleep means they are just right.

 

[kdubs518]

I figured that was the case, but I didn't feel much heat and then I saw one panting (chickens pant, right? Lol) in the back. When I took her out, she felt nice and toasty I guess I was concerned bc we had a long drive home and this is my first rodeo with baby chicks. Older hens I can do, but these babies make me a nervous wreck!
Thanks for reaffirming my suspicions!

 

[Ol Grey Mare]

Have you ever had your hand under a hen when she was in a nest (maybe while reaching to retrieve an egg)? If so, think back to the level of warmth you felt under her - certainly not "hot" at all, just a nice, pleasant warmth - that is what the cave should feel like.