Are you seeking foolproof methods to nurture your day-old chicks and ensure their survival? Discover an in-depth, step-by-step guide crafted to assist you in successfully brooding baby chicks.
Unveiling the Brooding Concept
Understanding the intricate art of brooding is essential for providing optimal care to newly hatched chicks. Brooding involves offering crucial care to chicks immediately after hatching, aiding in the development of essential feathers that provide vital nutrients and supplements.
In nature, mother hens naturally provide warmth and care to their chicks post-hatching. This natural brooding process is observable in backyard chicken coops. However, in commercial hatcheries, artificial methods, such as the use of commercial incubators, are employed to hatch chicks.
This comprehensive tutorial on caring for day-old chicks encompasses the tools and materials required to establish and maintain a successful brooding setup.
How to CARE FOR day old chicks
1. Establishing the Brooder House
Initiate the brooding process by setting up a meticulously cleaned and disinfected brooder house, along with sanitized equipment, drinkers, and feeders. It is advisable to fumigate the house at least two weeks before the anticipated arrival of the chicks.
2. Creating a Secure Environment
Ensure a safe floor for the baby chicks by spreading wood shavings approximately 3-5 cm thick. Cover the shavings with a substantial layer of paper, providing insulation from the cold floor while facilitating easy movement.
3. Regulating Brooder House Temperature
Activate your chosen heat source, whether it be a Gas hoover or a 60 to 70-watt bulb. Adjust the brooder house temperature based on the chicks’ behavioral cues, starting at around 30-35 degrees Celsius on the first day.
4. Organizing Feeders and Drinkers
Strategically position the chicken water fountain in proximity to the feeding trays, ensuring easy access to water while feeding.
5. Weighing and Dispensing Feed
Utilize a weighing scale to measure the recommended starter mash quantity specified by the feed manufacturer.
6. Introducing Multivitamins to the Water
Upon the chicks’ arrival from the hatchery, initiate their introduction to drinking water by dipping their beaks into water supplemented with essential multivitamins. This not only reduces stress from transportation but also teaches them to drink effectively.
7. Managing Light and Heat in the Brooder House
Maintain a consistent light source for the first 8 days, gradually reducing it thereafter. This helps the chicks adjust to their environment.
To prevent overcrowding, adhere strictly to the pen’s carrying capacity. Stay vigilant and observant, monitoring any flock changes closely. Should issues arise, promptly consult your veterinary doctor for expert advice.
