Brooding Chicks During a Power Outage

Newly hatched chicks require a warm brooder until they are fully feathered.  During a power outage, the temperature needs must still be met. 

Alternative heating methods are ideal and include a generator, adding insulation or blankets around the outside and top of the brooder, or placing the brooder near a fireplace or wood stove.

You can also add additional pine shavings or straw to help contain their heat. Instant hand warmers will also provide warmth to the chicks. They would need to be changed out as they lost their heat so be sure to have extras on hand.

In the first few weeks of life, the temperature is critical to the growth and development of your chicks. The minimum temperature for a brooder is 95 degrees for the first week and can be adjusted down 5 degrees per week after that until they are fully feathered and ready to move to the coop.

Visit our blog post for more helpful tips and tricks to brood chicks during a power outage.

Please note that Meyer Hatchery will not provide a refund or replacement order for losses due to power outages.