Maintaining the right brooder temperature is crucial for raising strong, healthy chicks. Young chicks cannot regulate their body temperature, making external warmth essential for their survival and growth.
Ideal Brooder Temperatures
🔹 Week 1: 95°F (35°C)
🔹 Week 2: 90°F (32°C)
🔹 Week 3: 85°F (29°C)
🔹 Week 4: 80°F (27°C)
🔹 Week 5 and onward: Reduce gradually until they are fully feathered
How to Maintain Proper Temperature
🟢 Use a Heat Lamp or Heating Plate – A red infrared bulb helps prevent stress and pecking while providing warmth.
🟢 Monitor Behavior – If chicks huddle together, they are too cold; if they stay far from the heat source, it's too hot.
🟢 Thermometer Placement – Keep a thermometer at chick level to ensure accurate temperature readings.
Signs of Temperature Issues
🚨 Too Hot: Panting, wings spread out, chicks avoiding the heat source.
🚨 Too Cold: Loud chirping, huddling in tight groups, reduced activity.
Keeping your brooder at the right temperature ensures your chicks grow strong and healthy. Temperature control is especially vital during the first few weeks, setting the foundation for a productive flock.
Stay tuned for more poultry care tips!