How to Set Up a Brooder for Baby Chicks: A Complete Guide for New Chick Owners

Connie Sims

Welcome to Chick Keeping!

Setting up a proper brooder is one of the most important steps you can take to ensure your new chicks thrive. This guide will walk you through everything you need to get started.

What is a Brooder?

A brooder is a warm, safe enclosure that mimics the warmth a mother hen provides. Baby chicks need supplemental heat for the first several weeks of life until they develop their feathers.

What You'll Need

  • Brooder box – A large plastic tote, cardboard box, or purpose-built brooder works well. Plan for at least 1/2 square foot per chick.
  • Heat source – A heat lamp. 
  • Thermometer – To monitor temperature accurately.
  • Bedding – Pine shavings work great. Avoid cedar shavings (toxic to chicks) and newspaper (too slippery).
  • Chick feeder – A small feeder designed for chicks.
  • Chick waterer – A shallow waterer so chicks can't drown.
  • Chick starter feed – A high-quality crumble formulated for baby chicks.

Temperature Guide

Keep one end of the brooder warm and the other cooler so chicks can self-regulate.

  • Week 1: 95°F (35°C)
  • Week 2: 90°F (32°C)
  • Week 3: 85°F (29°C)
  • Each week after: Reduce by 5°F until you reach ambient temperature or 65°F

Setting Up the Brooder

  1. Place bedding 2–3 inches deep on the floor of the brooder.
  2. Set up your heat source at one end.
  3. Place the thermometer at chick level (not at the top of the box).
  4. Fill the waterer and feeder and place them in the brooder.
  5. Pre-warm the brooder for at least an hour before your chicks arrive.

Reading Your Chicks

Your chicks will tell you if they're comfortable:

  • Too cold: Chicks huddle directly under the heat source and peep loudly.
  • Too hot: Chicks move as far from the heat as possible and pant.
  • Just right: Chicks move freely around the brooder, eating, drinking, and exploring.

When to Move Chicks Outside

Most chicks are ready to transition to the coop between 6–8 weeks of age, once they are fully feathered and nighttime temperatures are consistently above 50°F.

Questions?

We're always happy to help! Reach out to us at chicks@chesapeake-hatchery.com or visit www.chesapeake-hatchery.com.

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