Start with clean quarters. The environment should be free of drafts and rodents. Chicks need to be kept at 95°F for the first 10 days. This is extremely important. Decrease the temperature by 5°F every week thereafter. The ideal temperature for a 6-week-old bird is 70°F. The most common heat source used is a 250-watt heat bulb. When decreasing the temperature always consider the behavior of the chicks – if the chicks are huddling up, they are chilled. If they’re evenly dispersed, moving around, eating and drinking they are comfortable. ALWAYS use a thermometer to gauge if your temperature is appropriate. A thermometer should be at a midpoint between the heat source and the barrier - not directly under the lamp. Within the first 10 days, it may be necessary to provide a barrier to keep chicks near the heat source.
Provide 2-4 inches of suitable litter. Hemp Bedding or pine (or any untreated wood) shavings are ideal. Do not use cedar as it is chemically treated and could be poisonous. Litter must always be kept dry. Avoid using straw, newspaper, or other slick surfaces as they will cause leg problems.
Chicks must always have fresh food and water. Feed a quality starter feed for the first 1-8 weeks – then switch to a grower feed. You can scatter fine grit on top of the feed. We recommend you have enough feeders and waterers for at least 1/3 of your chicks to be able to eat and/or drink simultaneously.
PLEASE NOTE: It is very important to follow the care and brooding instructions to the letter to ensure the chicks get off to a healthy start. We guarantee all poultry healthy and well upon delivery.
North Georgia Homestead Supply & Mt. Healthy Hatcheries will not be responsible for any losses due to insufficient care.