Brooding Chicks: Tips for a Successful Start

Hatching and caring for chicks is a critical yet challenging phase in poultry farming. At Engoho Kuku Farmer, we aim to simplify the brooding process to ensure the best start for your chicks. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you manage brooding effectively:

1. Understanding Heat Requirements:

• Down vs. Heat: Chicks have minimal insulation from their down feathers, which is why a heat source is crucial. Avoid removing chicks from the incubator until they are fully dry to prevent chilling and potential death.
• Brooder Space: Ensure that the brooder has enough space for the chicks to move around. The heat source should not cover the entire brooder to allow chicks to move away if they get too hot. Keep food and water away from the heat source.

2. Monitoring Temperature and Behavior:

• Temperature Management: Start with a temperature of 30°C for the first week, then decrease by 1°C every two days. Use multiple thermometers to monitor temperature distribution and identify any drafty areas.
• Behavior Indicators:
  • Too Hot: Chicks will pant or move away from the heat source.
  • Too Cold: Chicks will cluster under the heat source.
  • Windy Conditions: Chicks will huddle on one side of the brooder if there’s a draft.

3. Preventing Pasty Butt and Overheating:

• Pasty Butt: Caused by overheating, stress, or infections, leading to blockage around the vent. Radiant heat sources can help prevent this issue.
• Heat Sources: Use infrared or ceramic bulbs to avoid overheating and ensure the chicks have a comfortable environment. Keep spare heat sources on hand to avoid sudden failures.

4. Light Considerations:

• Day/Night Routine: Continuous light from regular bulbs can disrupt the chicks' day/night cycle. Infrared bulbs provide red light that helps prevent pecking and supports natural sleep patterns.

5. Fire Safety:

• Heat Sources: Be cautious with flammable materials like cardboard or excelsior. Opt for safe heating options and maintain fire safety protocols.

6. Transitioning to the Coop:

• Feather Growth: Chicks usually transition out of the brooder around 2 weeks of age when they have enough feathers to regulate their body temperature independently.

7. Equipment Provided by Engoho Kuku Farmer:

• Gas Heaters: Capable of brooding up to 1000 chicks.
• Ceramic and Infrared Bulb Heaters: Suitable for brooding up to 200 chicks with one heater bar.
• Brooding Jikos: Designed to brood up to 500 chicks.

Ensuring the right conditions during brooding is essential for the health and growth of your chicks. For more information on brooding equipment or to purchase, visit Engoho Kuku Farmer or contact us at +254727474045 or +254716566544.

# Brooding Success Starts Here # Engoho Kuku Farmer