Mesh material allows for greater airflow during the summer months. Circular boundaries minimize huddling and loss due to suffocation. As the chicks increase in age and size, the boundary should continue to expand until it is no longer necessary. These facilities have reusable plastic waters and feeders specifically designed for this application. However, in order to reach their full potential, they need nourishment quickly, so they should be introduced to feed and water immediately post-hatch.
Temperature is a major concern when brooding young chicks.
The schedule should be altered during periods of stress or vaccination. At these times the temperatures should be increased about five degrees. Environmental temperature should be recorded approximately two inches from the floor directly under the heat source. Chick behavior should be monitored carefully, specifically noting chick panting or huddling. Panting is an indicator that the environmental temperature is too high, while huddling indicates the environmental temperature is too low.