new ducklings, warming questions.

[rockinredrhoman]

Hello. Yesterday we got 6 ducklings that are a couple days old. I am concerned about keeping them warm. One of those big heat lamps from the feed store seems a bit much for our brooder set up. Last night we had a heating pad under them and a regular light and bulb clamped in the brooder. It seemed warm in there but now my heating pad is malfunctioning and I really want to keep them warm. Are there any heating alternatives for so few babies? Maybe a standard high watt lightbulb? Also, I've read that ducklings huddle together when they are too cold but how do they sleep when they are comfortable? Thanks for your help.

 

[Amiga]

You may not need huge wattage. I kept a thermometer (a big round one designed for reptile cages) so I could monitor the temperatures.

Your ducklings probably ought to be about 85F this week, dropping to 80, then 75 - 5 degrees a week.