Finding young chickens ready to lay is challenging. Often, they’re pricey or limited in breed options. This means starting them as chicks at home might be necessary. Chicks require a safe space until they’re ready for the main coop, known as a brooder. This enclosure needs to be large enough for their movement but small enough to keep food, water, and heat sources within reach. The scope of brooders varies from single-use models to lifetime solutions.
Here’s a selection of different styles to help you pick the one that suits your needs.
DIY Poultry Brooders: For the Infrequent Brooder
When planning to raise a new batch of chicks every few years, it’s crucial to consider the logistics of housing them. One approach is to opt for a permanent or semi-permanent brooder setup that can be easily cleaned and maintained without requiring storage between flocks. This eliminates the need for frequent setup and teardown, freeing up time and resources for other aspects of your poultry keeping endeavors.
The Appliance Box
When searching for a suitable brooder box, consider repurposing large cardboard boxes used for appliances like refrigerators, freezers, dryers, and washers. By laying these boxes on their longest side and cutting out the top section, you’ll create a sturdy enclosure with ample floor space for your chicks to grow. This DIY solution leverages the natural height of the box’s walls while minimizing material waste.
However, keep in mind that cardboard is prone to degradation when exposed to moisture and chicken waste. To extend the lifespan of the brooder box and simplify litter removal, place a layer of plastic sheeting over the bottom before adding bedding material. This added precaution will help maintain a clean environment for your growing chicks.
Kiddie Pool
Incorporating creativity, consider repurposing a kiddie pool as the foundation. Wrap cardboard around its edges to create sides that contain the chicks, effectively mimicking an appliance box setup. Alternatively, substitute cardboard with plastic lattice panels or small grid fencing scraps for added structural integrity. This unconventional approach not only provides a unique enclosure but also offers a potential solution for creating a dust bath in your run if needed.
Large Tote
A large tote box, often referred to as a plastic appliance box, shares similarities with its refrigerator counterpart. Although the sides may not be as tall, it’s crucial to consider adding a lid to prevent escaped chicks. For a more secure solution, some individuals opt for crafting proper brooder covers by cutting out the center of the tote lid and lining it with wire mesh. Alternatively, you can place stiff wire mesh on top of the tote, securing it using zip ties or a weight.
This setup allows you to retain the integrity of your original tote and its lid for future use once your chicks have matured.
The Bathtub
When an unused bathroom in your home becomes available, consider repurposing it as a brooder for raising chicks. While the bathtub provides ample space for the young birds, you may need to improvise a lid or cover if your shower doors don’t allow for easy access. Additionally, make sure to seal the drain to prevent litter and debris from getting sucked down into the pipes.
As the chicks grow and their waste output increases, it’s crucial to maintain good ventilation in the bathroom by running the vent fan frequently. This will help minimize any unpleasant odors that may arise. Regularly changing the litter can also contribute to a healthier environment for the growing birds.
Brooder Panels
When it comes to providing a safe and cozy environment for your chicks, you have the option of purchasing either disposable or reusable brooder panels. To start, consider investing in 4-6 panels to keep your little ones close and warm, then gradually increase the number as they grow and require more space. The disposable panels are made from eco-friendly cardboard, which can be composted after use, making it a sustainable choice.
On the other hand, the reusable panels are designed to be water washable and can be easily collapsed for storage purposes. Additionally, you can also get creative and make your own brooder panels using readily available materials like cardboard boxes or foam poster board.
DIY Poultry Brooders: For the Frequent Brooder
For those who plan to spend more time incubating eggs or experimenting with different breeds, investing in a more permanent brooding solution can be a great idea. To help you get started, here are some DIY-friendly options for building brooders that will serve you well over time:
The Converted Crib
By repurposing a baby crib with some simple materials like chicken wire and cardboard or plywood, you can create an effective chick brooder. This setup can be easily transformed into a full-fledged chicken coop as your chicks mature and grow into adult hens, making it a great option for small-scale backyard chicken-keeping. Even if you only plan to raise a few hens, this versatile solution allows you to adapt to the changing needs of your flock.
The Collapsible Play Pen
When it comes to repurposing baby care supplies on the homestead, one clever approach is to employ a collapsible playpen, much like reusing an old crib. This versatile solution offers numerous benefits, starting with its ability to be easily set up and taken down. By employing a durable plastic sheeting, such as a paint tarp, you can safeguard the fabric of your playpen while simultaneously making cleanup after brooder usage a breeze.
Moreover, this innovative design allows for effortless storage when not in use, freeing up valuable space in your homestead.
The Stock Tank
Stock tanks can be an excellent choice for raising broiler chickens, which is why many farm supply stores utilize them for this purpose. However, their high cost can be a significant drawback. But, if you think creatively, you might find that using the tank to water other livestock during off-peak seasons can make it more justifiable. For instance, if you have seasonal pigs, you could use the tank temporarily before it’s needed again for its primary purpose.
By doing so, you’ll not only get a better return on your investment but also optimize the use of your equipment.
The IBC Tote
When it comes to repurposing IBC totes, one often-overlooked use is as a chick brooder. The large size and affordable price point of used totes make them an ideal solution for raising meat birds or laying flocks. Simply cut a hole in the top, line it with litter, and add your chicks. A word of caution: cleaning these containers can be a challenge, so plan ahead by implementing deep bedding methods – applying fresh litter on top of old during the brooding period.
Beyond their use as chick brooders, IBC totes can serve as a shelter for other livestock like baby goats or piglets when not in use. They also make excellent rain barrels, allowing you to collect water for your garden. Alternatively, after the brooding period is complete, you could repurpose the tote as a large worm bin or compost container. The built-in liquid dispenser at the bottom can be used to drain liquids and create compost tea.
In this scenario, you won’t need to remove all the dirty litter until it’s time to harvest your vermicompost.
The Dog Crate Do-Over
When it comes to creating a safe haven for your chicks, you don’t necessarily need a dedicated chick brooder. A sizeable collapsible dog crate or large dog carrier can be repurposed into a cozy space by lining the bottom and sides with cardboard, providing a comfortable environment for your little ones.
DIY Poultry Brooders: For the Chicken Aficionado
Are you someone who thrives on adding a touch of elegance and personality to your chicken-keeping endeavors? If so, we’ve got the perfect solutions for you. Here are some Instagram-worthy ideas that will help you bring a dash of glamour and creativity to your backyard flock.
The Pie Safe Style Brooder
In the past, people relied on ‘pie safes’ to preserve their food, like freshly baked pies, from insects and critters that could contaminate them. These enclosures provided ample air circulation and were often aesthetically pleasing. Today, genuine pie safes are highly sought after in antique markets, making them impractical for brooding chicks. Nevertheless, you can replicate the functionality by repurposing other pieces of furniture with doors.
Simply remove the center sections of the doors and substitute them with wire mesh to create a makeshift brooder. Just remember, even if your setup is visually appealing, it’s best not to store pies in it – the aroma of chicken droppings isn’t exactly appetizing!
Armoire and More
Transform an old armoire into a cozy brooder, where you can raise your chicks until they’re big enough. Once they’ve grown, you can expand the setup by adding a run and converting it into a full-fledged chicken coop. You may need to add a roof to ensure the structure remains weatherproof. This creative repurposing offers an impressive way to provide for your stylish and sophisticated feathered friends.
All Dressed Up With No Place To Go
While transforming an outdated dresser into a brooder may seem like a daunting task at first, the end result is truly impressive. Not only does it provide a unique and stylish way to house your chickens, but it also preserves valuable storage space beneath for essential accessories.
All New Kind of Entertainment Center
Transforming an outdated entertainment center into a charming chicken coop is a project that offers endless entertainment value. Not only will you enjoy the process of upcycling, but you’ll also have the pleasure of observing your feathered friends as they thrive and grow in their new surroundings. This DIY endeavor is sure to be a hit, providing hours of enjoyment and a sense of accomplishment that’s hard to match.
The Barnyard Brooder
Looking to incorporate the rustic charm of a traditional barn into your home decor? Why not create a show-stopping room with a brooder that perfectly captures the essence of a country barn? For me, there’s no denying the allure of a classic red hue, reminiscent of weathered barn wood. That said, even in a soothing blue tone, this design is nothing short of stunning.
DIY Poultry Brooders: For the Professional Chick Raiser
Whether seasoned or new to the world of chick rearing, the following insights cater to individuals with varying levels of experience. From novice to expert, these practical tips will help you optimize your approach and foster a thriving environment for your feathered friends.
The Four For One
Raising multiple flocks simultaneously? You might want to consider setting up separate brooder spaces using this versatile design. While I personally struggle to manage a single age group, I can see the benefits of this approach for commercial breeders of exotic chick varieties.
This clever setup not only maximizes vertical space but also enables easy monitoring and maintenance of all your chicks at once.
With supplies conveniently located nearby, you’ll be able to refill feed and water bowls with ease, streamlining your brooding process.
The Built-In Poop Proof Brooder
The in-coop brooder not only provides a safe haven for young chicks but also offers an alternative roosting space for existing chickens in the coop. This setup is particularly appealing to hens that prefer to roost on flat surfaces rather than traditional bars. To create a comfortable and efficient environment, I recommend using covered ceramic heaters instead of lamps. Additionally, a nipple watering system that can be filled from outside would be an excellent choice.
The Amazing Adaptable Brooder
This brooder design offers versatility and flexibility, featuring wooden inserts that can be adjusted to minimize drafts when chicks are young. As the chicks grow and mature, the inserts can be removed or modified to allow for increased airflow. Furthermore, the design allows for easy conversion into a pasture pen by adding a top layer, enabling your little ones to forage for greens.
Interestingly, this same brooder design is suitable not just for chickens but also for rabbits, making it an excellent choice for farmers and pet owners alike who want to provide a safe and healthy environment for their animals.
The Dedicated Shed Plus Worm Bed
I’ll admit it – I used to raise ducks for market. As a result, I’ve developed a dedicated shed for incubation and brooding of all my poultry. One aspect I’m not particularly fond of is cleaning up after the birds. To address this issue, I designed a built-in brooder that doubles as a year-round worm bed. Measuring 4 feet wide by 8 feet long, it’s an efficient use of space. The floor is lined with re-purposed polyethylene feed bags to protect the wooden base and ensure easy cleaning.
The surface has a deliberate slope for drainage, and any liquid from the worms or poultry waste flows through a screen-covered drain. When I’m brooding chicks or ducklings, I supplement the bed’s litter to safeguard my worms from these naturally inclined diggers. However, when not being used as a brooder, the setup functions like a regular large worm bed. Half of the structure features a wooden top, providing a sense of security for my young charges.
The other half is covered with chicken wire, allowing for natural light, air circulation, and easy access for feeding and watering. To coax my babies out from beneath the wooden canopy, I use treats – a clever way to encourage them to venture forth.
The Ohio Brooder
The Ohio brooder, patented in 1927, remains a reliable and effective innovation even today. This modern design provides a cozy, protected environment for young chickens during their early days, followed by a seamless transition to the larger coop as they mature and become less reliant on heat. Its versatility makes it an excellent choice for enclosed coops and large flocks of chicks.
Let the Brooding Begin
When it comes to raising brooder-style chickens, frequent checks on your chicks are essential. It’s crucial to monitor their environment and address any potential safety hazards that may arise. For instance, ensure the heat lamp is placed at a safe distance from flammable materials and provide ample space for the chicks as they grow. Additionally, maintaining fresh litter in the brooder is vital for keeping your flock healthy. As you navigate this process, don’t forget to have fun!
Raising chickens can be an incredibly rewarding experience that brings people together and creates lasting memories.
