What size brooder?

[CowgirlPenny]

Our ladies came to us as pullets so they were ready to go straight out into their coop/run. But this next batch we expect early next month will be day old chicks. How large of a space do I need to prepare for 8-12? I have a large rabbit cage, big plastic storage containers, a dog crate and more. I would love to be able to recycle or make one out of something we have rather than purchase something new.

 

[spotlikeschicks]

I'm using 2 big plastic storage containers with a wire mesh and wood frame for a top. So far it seems to be working, of course I only have 5 standard sized chicks in one and 3 bantams in the other but more showing up next week.

 

[classicsredone]

We didn't want to use two different brooders, so we built the brooder big enough to handle 25 4-week old chicks. (1/2 sq foot per chick) We ended up with a LOT less chicks, but oh well. Ours is made from taped-together cardboard boxes.

 

[showme69]

Quote:
That's what I'm using for the 15 chicks we're getting next month. First got the idea from this member.

https://www.backyardchickens.com/web/viewblog.php?id=31282-brooder

I have a friend who works at Lowes. He got me a washer and dryer box which I've cut to make a 4 1/2 foot square box that is 2 1/2 feet tall. I just need another box to make a solid floor and it'll be ready to go. Simple, cheap and disposable.

 

[kidd42]

Quote:
That's what I'm using for the 15 chicks we're getting next month. First got the idea from this member.

https://www.backyardchickens.com/web/viewblog.php?id=31282-brooder

I have a friend who works at Lowes. He got me a washer and dryer box which I've cut to make a 4 1/2 foot square box that is 2 1/2 feet tall. I just need another box to make a solid floor and it'll be ready to go. Simple, cheap and disposable.

Both of those brooders are awesome! Thanks for sharing with us.