Moving out my first set of chicks, anything I need to know?

[Wheeks]

My first group of chicks are moving out from the brooder either today or tomorrow. I plan on using deep litter so I have about 2-3 inches of shavings laid down, roosts and food and water.

When does one usually add in more litter, just when it becomes more saturated? I've got this stuff called coop clean too, when could I start mixing that in?

Also how long do I keep them cooped up (harhar) before letting them free roam? Thank you!

 

[Mrs. K]

If you have a coop/run combination. I would leave the door open between them, and leave them confined for at least a week. If they are just chicks, without older hens, they will be very susceptible to predators depending on your area.

Depending on how old they are, and what your brooder set up was, they may not roost immediately. Don't worry, they will figure it out.

Your nose will tell you when you need to clean. Hopefully your coop has good ventilation, which will keep things dryer, the more dry, the less cleaning.

Good luck

Mrs K