these chickies are too big for thier britches

[HuffmanHens]

My RIR and Barred Ricks will be a week old tomorrow and this is my first time with any poultry. When is a good age you recommend to cover the broader. I have 8 chicks total in a 100 gallon Rubbermaid tub. They are almost jumping out of it. TIA

 

[Ol Grey Mare]

Welcome to BYC!
I have a cover that goes over my brooder from day 1 of chicks going into it because, as you have learned, they become pretty mobile surprisingly fast. If your birds are already escaping the time to cover the brooder has come.

 

[BantamFan4Life]

Welcome to BYC! I'm glad you joined us!

 

[drumstick diva]

Please put a wire cover on NOW. If they fall / fly out, they won't know how to get back in. A cover also protects from curious house pets, etc.

 

[N F C]

Yep, definitely time to put a cover over the brooder. You don't want to come up missing a chick or have one get hurt "flying/jumping" out of the brooder.

For other helpful information about raising chicks, check out the Learning Center. There are a lot of good articles there that cover all sorts of topics.

Good luck with your chicks, it's nice to have you here!