What size brooder for 25 chix?

[hnorth]

I've got an order for 25 Icelandic chicks coming in March. What suggestion do you guys have to house them for at least a month for growth?

I have an 11x16 Rent-a-coop brooder plate for them. I'm looking for overall dimensions.

 

[nuthatched]

Can you get one of those big boxes they sell pillows or pumpkins in? Chicks double in size every week, so an XL dog kennel will work for about two week, then maybe a kiddie pool for two weeks. Some use a tent without the fly in a secure area like a shed.

 

[rosemarythyme]

I'd consider 2 brooders if possible, to reduce risk of them huddling in a pile and crushing one another. By 4 weeks old they'll need about 1 sq ft per chick, so a brooder/brooders that can expand would be great (i.e. start with 1 produce box, add a second one to expand).

You'll definitely need more than a single brooder plate. Whatever the max capacity they cite on the instructions, assume it doesn't hold that many.

 

[Hedgeland Farms]

I use 2 boxes joined together for an 8x4 brooder...and 2 heat boards as a cave
I put mine outside wk 2 or 3

Best pic I have it only shows half of the second box...

 

[wrathsfarm]

I use 2 boxes joined together for an 8x4 brooder...and 2 heat boards as a cave
I put mine outside wk 2 or 3

Best pic I have it only shows half of the second box...

Very nice setup for diy.

 

[hnorth]

25 chicks seems like quite a crowd. I expect it'll be like spring break in ft. Lauderdale in there.

 

[Hedgeland Farms]

25 chicks seems like quite a crowd. I expect it'll be like spring break in ft. Lauderdale in there.

I've had 26-30 in my brooder at one time with no issues

 

[Hedgeland Farms]

Very nice setup for diy.

It's worked super well for me...

I also line the bottom with a 4x4 sheet of cardboard...(one on each side)

So when I am done brooding..I just pick it up, fold it half...and funnel it into my compost...

Shop vac out the rest of the shavings from the box...

Clean it up. Sanitize it and use it for my next brood...

I've used it 2 or 3 times now...(2 I think ) and it's set and waiting for my turkeys to come in April