keeping babies warm

[kdcolorado]

I just got my first 16 pullets today. Im finding it difficult to keep the brooder temp at 100 degrees.
I have a 100 watt bulb wtih reflector 19 inches from floor, they are in a 20 gallon reptile tank. I even have a heating pad
underneath and a space heater in the room. Its snowing out! lol
The temp fluctuates from over 100 to under 90 at times. Any suggestions? Will they be safe and warm?
They seem to have grown since I got them at 7am this morning and I also wonder if this tank will be enough space for them.

 

[Ariel301]

Do they seem comfortable? I've found that chicks don't necessarily need to be at 100 degrees. In fact, the only chicks I've ever seen using heat lamps are ones I have mail ordered, ones I hatch myself never want the heat and are happy at room temperature.

 

[CCourson05]

The temp in the brooder needs to be 95-90... Not 100

 

[kdcolorado]

My chicks came from a hatchery in Missouri so they arrived by mail They are very lively and they go through tons of water. I have the bottom covered with paper towel
and chick starter feed and its all wet now. lol Should i change it b4 i go to sleep tonight. And how much room do they really need cuz they sure seem to be growing already.
oh and thanks for the input....this is my first time having chicks.

 

[CCourson05]

Most say 1/2 square foot per bird... I try to go with 1 so I can keep them in the brooder for a few weeks...

 

[kdcolorado]

Thank You for all the info. I do appreciate it. It appears my 20 gallon reptile tank is not going to be big enough for 16 chicks. I will have to build a much larger brooder tomorrow for them.

 

[froggiesheins]

They will outgrow that tank REAL FAST....start looking for a nice BIG box. Boxes work great and the price is right. You can also use an extra large Rubbermaid container.