Which heating lamp to use?

[AndyL]

Hi, I would like to get an opinion on which reflector lamp to use for raising four baby Australorp chicks that I will be receiving shortly. I have a standerd reflector lamp that uses a 100 watt bulb already. Do you folks think that would be sufficient to keep my new chicks warm or should I invest in a 250 watt infrared heat lamp?

Thanks in advance for helping out a real newbie!

 

[JenMT]

Are they housed inside or outside and what is the average day/night temp where you are in CT? I am thinking that as long as you can maintain a 90-95 degree temp with the 100 watt you should be just fine. Go ahead and get your brooder ready now and place a thermometer inside to see where you are temp wise. Good luck to you and your new chicks.

 

[chicklips]

I agree, as long as your brooder is at 90-95 degrees you should be good. I stared off with a red 250w and had to chage to a red 100w because the 250w was too hot.

 

[AndyL]

They will be housed inside down in my clean and dry basement at around 60-65 deg.

 

[JenMT]

Oh good, I think that your 100 watt should be just fine. Have you read all the info on BYC home page about raising baby chicks? It is very helpful...good luck!

 

[AndyL]

Yes I have, I am trying to research/absorb as much info as I can to get on the right track!