The days are getting longer and the official start of Spring is not far in the future. A sure sign of spring is the “peep, peep, peep” of baby chicks.

The success of any flock depends upon proper rearing. It is extremely important for you to feed your birds correctly, starting the first day they arrive. We want to help you have a successful poultry project.

Here are a few guidelines that can be helpful. In addition, please feel free to contact us toll free at 866-666-7626 for answers about ADM Alliance Nutrition feed or to locate a Dealer near you.

Starting Your Birds:

Clean and disinfect all facilities and equipment.

 

Floor space requirements:
Age	Square Feet Per Bird
1 - 8 weeks	1.0
8 -18 weeks	2.0 to 2.5
18+ weeks	3.0 to 3.5

Litter: 2 to 3 inches of shavings, sawdust, etc.

Temperature:

• Layers and Broilers ...... 90° - 95° F for the first week

• Game Birds ................. 95° - 98° F for the first week

• Measure the temperature at 2" above the floor.

• Place the heat lamp 18" to 20" above the floor level.

• Reduce temperature 5° F per week until you reach 70° F

• One 250 watt heat lamp per 50 to 75 chicks.

Feeder Space Requirements:

• 2.0 to 3.0 inches per bird (linear) or

• 20 to 25 birds per feeder pan

Waterer Space:

 

Age	Space Required
1 - 8 weeks	1 inch per bird (linear) or 75 -100 birds per round metal drinker
8 - 18 weeks	2 inches per bird (linear) or 50- 100 birds per round metal drinker
18+ weeks	2 inches per bird (linear) or 50 -100 birds per round metal drinker

Be Ready: Have your brooder, heat lamps, waterers, and all facilities set up, warmed up, and ready before your birds arrive.

• Remember, CLEAN AND DRY is a must for chicks.

• Have good ventilation, but prevent drafts.

• Allow chicks to drink before they eat. Always keep fresh water available. Use a water-soluble medication as an aid for stressed birds.

• Keep feeders clean and dry. Keep feed free-choice at all times.

• If chicks "pile up,"check the floor temperature.

• Remove sick or dying chicks. Consider de-beaking chicks at 7 to 10 days of age.

• Eliminate all possible access by rodents.

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