"Too Many birds for my Brooder" Dilemma

[JohnL11935]

How many square inches(?) PER BIRD are generally recommended for planning brooder space?

Obviously the space reqirement would increase every week but if I was planning to purchase 16-20 chicks is there some amount of space I could plan that they shouldn't outgrow before moving outdoors to a currently empty coop?

Thanks.

 

[Chick_a_dee]

Quote:
4x4 was fine for my 15 until we got behind on the coop... ugh.

 

[WoodlandWoman]

The most common recommended floor space per chick is:

0-4 weeks - 1/2 square foot

4-8 weeks - 1 square foot

8-12 weeks - 2 square feet

Over 12 weeks - 4 square feet for heavy breeds
- 3 square feet for light breeds

 

[Chick_a_dee]

Quote:
Man am I ever glad I made the brooder 4x4.... The chicks may be stepping on others toes if you will, but at least the space is still large enough for them... that buys me time!

 

[JohnL11935]

Quote:
Sounds good. Thanks.

 

[WoodlandWoman]

You're welcome! It's pretty amazing how fast they grow.

 

[Linda in San Diego]

Way to go DH! What a great space for the chickys!

 

[swampducks]

Now DH is talking about a second story for the chick brooder at least till they're big enough to eat. :|

 

[Peaguy]

Just an FYI post,
Those "watermelon" boxes are known as Gaylord boxes and are sometimes/often wax coated to help battle moisture issues. Many places will not "give them away" unless their usefulness is past it's prime as they are very expensive to purchase when new. But that being said, IF you are able to luck into one

they would make a GREAT brooder and yup, they will fold flat for transport or storage!
Good Luck!