Show me your brooder set-up!

[Omgbrii]

First time Chicken and duck mom. I started off with a tote village and then got the XXL kennel. I had 6 from TSC and then 9 I hatched myself. So the hatchling floofs started off alone and then I merged them all in the xxl kennel at two and three/four weeks. I still have ducks in a tote but they are way too big for it. Just don’t have room for anything else atm.

 

[My Very First 6 Chickens]

I'm interested on how you guys have set up the brooder. Include some pics!

Do you like the heating plates or the heating lamp better?
Do you use shavings or dog training pads, or what kind of bedding? I believe shavings decrease odor.

I learned that moving forward I will make a brooder with a side access door so I can approach the brooder from their level and not above them. That way, you can easily rest your hand inside comfortably instead of bending over and stressing the back.