Housing and environment Ideally the temperature for the first few days should be kept around 32 to 33ºC (at chick level). For a heat lamp or gas brooder the hottest area under its centre should be 40ºC with the coolest area being 24ºC. You can use a thermometer to check the air temperature at chick height. You will notice even if you do not have a thermometer your chicks will tell you if they are too hot or too cold. If the chicks are too cold they will be huddled under the heat source and if too hot they will be at the edges of the pen to escape the heat. Your chicks should be evenly spread around the pen with some eating, some drinking and some sleeping. As the chicks grow the temperature should be reduced by around 3ºC per week. Switch on the heat source 4 to 6 hours before placing the chicks so their environment including bedding is warmed to the desired temperature prior to their arrival. It is important to provide your chicks with fresh water daily. Ensure your drinke
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