New to chickens need advice to do it right

[Soflocouple]

Hi folks, our family decided to start with 3 blue australorp and 3 silver lace.
We live in. South Florida and have a question about heat lamp. Temperature is 80 to 90 most days. Should I still use a heat lamp?

 

[Joeschooks]

There’s loads of friendly, knowledgeable members who will be pleased to help. Im by no means new to raising chicks but being in UK im not familiar with hot weather and I don’t use heat lamps either. Sorry I can’t help but someone will be able to give you info I’m sure.
Great to have you in the flock.

 

[Kiki]

We are glad you joined our flock.
Jump right in and make yourself at home.
I do not think I would use a heat lamp.
Have you heard of using a heat pad cave type thing instead?
This video will help you learn how to navigate this site:

Official BYC Coop Page Contest - Fall-Winter 2017

 

[TwoCrows]

Hello there and welcome to BYC!

You might only use it if it drops below 85 for 1 to 7 day old chicks. At 2 1/2 or 3 weeks you could probably do away with completely. Stop by your state thread for more help in your climate.... https://www.backyardchickens.com/threads/florida-always-sunny-side-up.305793/

Australorps are a wonderful breed! Silver Laced are gorgeous! Good luck and welcome to our roost!

 

[drumstick diva]

Welcome to Backyard chickens

 

[lazy gardener]

I would not use a heat lamp at those temps. You might consider looking at the MHP system. Check out the 2 articles and thread dedicated to MHP written by @Blooie .

It's so very easy to overheat chicks, especially when using a heat lamp. What are your night time temps?

 

[Pork Pie]

Hello and welcome to BYC. TwoCrows has given you good advice - consult your neighbours.

 

[Jetblack2004]

Enjoy your chicks! Others have given some good advice

 

[007Sean]

Howdy You have already been given good advice , so I'll just say, WELCOME!

 

[Teila]

G'Day from down under Soflocouple Welcome!

I hope you enjoy being a BYC member. There are lots of friendly and very helpful folks here so not only is it overflowing with useful information it is also a great place to make friends and have some fun.

BYC has Topic of the Week discussions which I have found to be a great resource, informative and sometimes entertaining; so definitely worth checking out. This one may be of particular interest:
Topic of the week - Brooding and supplementing heat for chicks

If you would like to share Pictures and Stories of your flock, you have come to the right place. BYC’ers never tire of these and do not back away slowly or commence eye rolling when the photo album or home videos come out

Including your general location on your profile will assist others. Location, climate, season etc can be important factors when members are responding to any questions you may have and vice versa.

You may be interested in these links:

• Learning Centre
• Articles
• Raising Baby Chicks Forum
• Mama Heating Pad Thread