In nature, the mother hen 'broods' her chicks, but I don't have a mother hen OK, I have to make a brooder set up. Actually, I'm planning on setting up what is called "an area brooder". This creates a heated area, a place for water and a feeder.
I'll either use a big box, or I'll set up a corrugated wall ( 18 inches high),in a circle with a diameter of about 4 feet. I'll hang a heat light from above, and monitor the heat with a thermometer. I'll start at about 95 degrees (under the light) for the first week, then lower the temp about 5 degrees each week. The light is called a hover and I can adjust the temperature simply by raising or lowering the light.
The chicks will also be part of the heat control. They can move under or away from the light. If they are massed directly under the light I'll know they're cold and if they are massing against the corrugated wall, I'll know its too hot. SIMPLE?
Well, you've seen pictures of the coop under construction. I don't know if I should start the brooder in the coop or in the house. There are pro's and con's to each. Do you have any recommendations????
I should probably have two light sources for the brood if its outside, because if the light goes out, they could freeze to death.
I'm kind of thinking I'd like to keep them in the house for the first few weeks . But the biggest problem inside is:
Well, this makes it seem that the dog might be an issue but in fact the real danger is simply:
Keeska!
4 comments:
Look at those innocent blue eyes... She would never!
Even if she did, you would have to forgive a face like that!
I vote inside, too cold outside!! Mum probably wouldnt like it, but I know I'd rather keep an eye on them 24/7!
This kitten will attack anything!
that picture makes her look pretty fearsome. she's in perma-hunting mode.
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