My new brooder and current batch of chicks

[crperdue]

I thought I'd post some pics of the new brooder I made.

Here it is open:

I made it out of OSB, 2x2s, and hardware cloth. It's 3' by 3' and 2' deep. The bottom is 1/4" hardware cloth and the top is 1/2" hardware cloth. Its hinged in the middle so I can flip it over and use the 1/2" cloth for flooring when I need to.

Right now I'm raising some Delaware pullets and a couple of New Hampsire cockrels.

Here is a Delaware pullet:

She's 5 days old in this pic. These Delawares are the most active chick I have ever had! They can really run.

A New Hampshire cockrel:

He and his brothers are 4 days old.

The chicks seem to be doing great and the new brooder has been a snap to clean. It might look dirty in the pic, but the droppings are beneath the wire by about two inches. I clean out both feeders and both waterers and replace the dropping papers daily. I was in the middle of doing this when I took the pics so you see the two feeders are empty and have the jars removed!

 

[johnmayersquare]

Great job! Looks awesome!

 

[cmom]

What a wonderful idea!!! Great job and beautiful babies.

 

[magikchick]

Great job, makes my cardboard box look shabby.

 

[newchickmom]

Love It!

I want Delawares!

 

[Chicken Woman]

I would remove hardware cloth as they can develop som feet and leg problems . Just paper towels with some shavings under for cushen. That way they won't eat wood shavings or get them in food and water.

I love the brooder !!!!!