The brooding temperature for chicks should be carefully managed to ensure their health and comfort. For the first 1–2 days, the ideal temperature is 35–33°C. From day 3 to 7, it should gradually decrease to 33–32°C. After that, reduce the temperature by about 2–3°C each week until the chicks are around 5–6 weeks old, at which point the temperature should be maintained at 21–18°C. It's essential not only to rely on a thermometer but also to observe the chicks' behavior. When the temperature is just right, they will appear lively, eat well, drink moderately, sleep quietly, and lie in comfortable positions. They should be evenly spread throughout the brooding area.
If the temperature is too high, the chicks will move away from the heat source, stretch their wings, pant, drink frequently, and show a reduced appetite. On the other hand, if the temperature is too low, they will huddle together near the heat source, shiver, make cold "squeaking" sounds, and lose interest in food. Chicks are very sensitive to temperature changes, so it's important to avoid sudden fluctuations and maintain a stable environment as much as possible.
Temperature adjustments should also consider the time of day and weather conditions. At night or during rainy or snowy days, the temperature should be slightly higher. During the day, when the chicks are more active and the weather is warmer, the temperature can be lower. Additionally, weaker or newly hatched chicks may need a slightly warmer environment compared to stronger ones.
Humidity is equally important and closely linked to water evaporation, body heat regulation, and overall cleanliness in the chicken house. If the temperature is low and humidity is high, chicks may lose too much moisture, leading to dehydration. Dry dust from the environment can also cause respiratory issues. Conversely, if it's cold and humid, the house becomes damp, increasing the risk of colds, wet litter, and diseases like coccidiosis.
High temperature combined with high humidity can make it difficult for chicks to cool down, leading to discomfort, poor appetite, slow growth, and weakened immunity. Ideally, the chicken house should be dry to prevent bacterial growth, but the relative humidity should not drop below 40%. Before 10 days of age, the optimal humidity is 60–65%, and after that, it should be between 50–60%.
When humidity is too low, you can spray water on the floor, walls, or walkways, or place water near the heat source to increase moisture levels. If humidity is too high, laying a moisture-proof layer on the floor, raising the temperature slightly, improving ventilation, changing the litter, removing wet waste, and checking the waterers for leaks can help control the environment effectively.
Xuzhou Guifeng Metal Technology Co., Ltd , https://www.guifengmetal.com