How to Build a Brooder House for Chicks

Having a warm, well-built brooder house affords newly hatched chicks with the best opportunity for exceptional health and growth during the first crucial weeks of life. According to the University of Florida Animal Science Extension, the key to a successful brooding is providing the correct temperature, draft protection and ventilation. If properly built, a chicken brooder can last several broods and produce healthy chicks year round.

Things You'll Need

  • Drawer liner
  • Large plastic tote
  • 250 watt heat lamp bulb
  • 10-inch brooder heat lamp with clamp
  • Empty plastic sour cream/butter container with lid
  • Scissors
  • Hot water
  • Brooder thermometer
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Instructions

    • 1

      Cut the drawer liner to size using the scissors, and fit on the bottom of the tote.

    • 2

      Insert the bulb into the heat lamp.

    • 3

      Attach the heat lamp to one corner of the tote, using the clamp.

    • 4

      Cut four holes (equally spaced) around the rim of the plastic container and one in the center of the lid, using the scissors.

    • 5

      Fill the plastic container with hot water to create humidity. Do not fill past the holes.

    • 6

      Secure the lid on the container and place in the corner of the tote directly under the heat lamp.

    • 7

      Place the thermometer on the floor of the tote on the same side as the heat lamp.