1. Prepare the Brooding Area

• Clean and Sterilize the Brooder: Make sure the brooding box or pen is completely clean, free from any germs or contaminants. Sterilize the area if necessary.
• Size of the Brooder: Ensure the brooder has enough space for the chicks to move comfortably, with enough room to grow. You can start with a smaller space but gradually increase as they grow.

2. Set Up Heat Source

• Temperature: The first few hours are critical for temperature regulation. Set up a heat lamp or brooder plate to maintain a temperature of 95°F (35°C) for the first 24 hours.
• Adjust Gradually: For the next few days, you can reduce the temperature by about 5°F (2.8°C) every week until reaching around 70°F (21°C) by the time the chicks are 6 weeks old.
• Warm Zone: Ensure that the heat source provides a warm zone and there is also cooler space in the brooder. Chicks will move toward warmth if they need it, so be mindful of this.

3. Provide Clean Bedding

• Bedding Material: Use fresh, absorbent bedding like pine shavings or paper towels. Avoid materials that could pose a risk, such as cedar shavings or slippery surfaces.
• Depth of Bedding: Spread a thin layer of bedding (about 1-2 inches) to help absorb moisture and reduce the risk of injury.

4. Provide Feed and Water

• Chick Starter Feed: On Day 1, feed the chicks a high-protein chick starter feed (about 18-20% protein) formulated for the first few weeks of life. Scatter the food lightly on the floor or in a shallow container for easy access.
• Fresh Water: Provide clean, fresh water right away. Make sure the water container is shallow enough for the chicks to access but deep enough to avoid drowning.
• Water with Electrolytes: If possible, add electrolytes or vitamins to the water to give the chicks a boost after hatching.

5. Chick Behavior Check

• Monitor the Chicks: Immediately observe the chicks after placing them in the brooder. Ensure they are active and eating/drinking.
• Behavioral Signs:
  • If chicks are huddling under the heat source, they are cold—consider raising the heat or adding another heat source.
  • If chicks are spread out far from the heat source or chirping loudly, it may be too hot—move the heat source higher to lower the temperature.

6. Allow Time for Adjustment

• First 24 Hours: The chicks will likely be exhausted after hatching, so give them time to adjust to their new environment. Provide plenty of space for them to move around.
• Minimal Handling: Limit handling on Day 1 to reduce stress, as they are still adjusting to their new home.

7. Create a Safe Environment

• Prevent Drafts: Make sure the brooder is draft-free. Chicks are highly sensitive to temperature changes, so avoid placing the brooder in a drafty area.
• Keep the Brooder Lid Secure: Ensure that the brooder has a secure lid or walls high enough to prevent chicks from escaping or predators from getting in.

8. Health Monitoring

• Look for Abnormalities: Check that all chicks are active and healthy. Day 1 chicks may not eat a lot immediately, but they should be drinking water. If a chick is weak, separated from the group, or seems lethargic, try to help them drink and seek advice if necessary.

By following these steps, you’ll create a comfortable and safe environment for your Day 1 chicks to grow and thrive!