If you are planning to raise hens that will produce offspring, your chicken coop kits/ plans must incorporate a properly designed brooding area. This is the place where the hen will lay her eggs and incubate them. As with all plan designs, the first step is proper planning and gathering of materials.

Step 1

Many products can be used to construct a suitable brooding area. You are basically looking for a place where the hen can remain and stay warm and comfortable. The area should be free of drafts and easy to clean. Many people find that simple cardboard works well as an insulating barrier. It’s cheap and can easily be changed out when it becomes dirty. Chicken coop kits can give you more information about this area.

Step 2

The floor area needs to be covered with absorbent materials that won’t clump up easily. Generally, about two inches of a substance such as wood shavings, corn husks, or rice hulls make a good floor covering. Materials for the construction of the litter should be some type of material that isn’t slick such as cheesecloth or burlap.

Step 3

A heat source is a necessity, especially in colder climates. Bothe un-hatched eggs and new chicks must be kept warm. 250 watt heat lamps with reflectors work best for this. You’ll need 1 lamp for about every 25 chicks or so. The lamps should be hung about 18 inches above the litter. Ensure that the lamps are providing sufficient heat to the whole area.

Step 4

Some sort of feed box will be needed. This can be a simple cardboard tray whose sides are cut down to a height of an inch or less. Ensure that the chicks can access the feed.

Step 5

Make sure that you have adequate space for the number of chicks you want to raise. A good planning figure is a space of about 6 square feet per 50 chicks. Also ensure that the heat source can provide heat for the entire space.

Step 6

Many people supply a low wattage red light for use in the night. This allows the brooders to see after dark and be able to feed easily. Though not absolutely necessary, it is a cheap addition that can help your operation.

Step 7

Providing water is a tricky process. Chicks are very easy to drown and the water trough should be as shallow as possible. This will require more frequent checking unless some sort of feeder system is employed.

Now you have the basics for constructing a proper brooding area. For first time chicken farmers, there will be a learning curve, but if you follow these steps and make use of chicken coop kits and guides your problems should be few.

Originally posted 2010-03-26 15:02:58. Republished by Blog Post Promoter