Brooder Set Up
SUPPLY LIST
I built the dirt trap frame from scrap lumber.
Quart Jar feeder attachment or this feeder
Free choice some grit (small rocks) in a small plastic container or similar.
Clamp (heat) lamp with bulb
Build your own framed cover with 1/2” hardware cloth and scrap lumber (optional).
SIDE NOTE
At night I put the chicks under a cardboard box.
I’ll keep the heat lamp on through the night for the first few days and just monitor them during the day.
90 degree temps at day one, and you can come down 3-4
Porta-Brooder Set Up
Get Chicks outside at day One with the Porta Brooder
Why a Porta-Brooder
In nature chicks are out on day one
Source 20% of their diet from grass
More of their diet from bugs
Sunshine, fresh air and natural foods will boost their health (and growth)
When can you do this
Day 1-2, if it’s warm, dry and not windy (70 degrees)
By Day 10, 40 degrees and dry.
By Day 14, anytime so long as it’s not raining.
What you’ll need
Here’s the list of supplies I used to build this
Setting it into action
Set up the outside cage (preferably near the house)
Carry them out (when it’s warm enough)
Put up your ramp and open them up
Set up your feed and water
Bring them in for rain, when you leave, before dark, or cold. Keep them out if it’s well protected and warm enough.