Supply Check List

1) Chick Brooder Guard or Area – This can consist of a large box, tubs, tote, etc. that should be set to 95 Degrees and maintained once your chicks are introduced to their new home. It is best to replace shavings and/or bedding every day while also providing fresh Earth First Feed and water in order to maintain a healthy environment. As it goes, a chick’s health is directly linked to the environment which they are in.

2) Heat Lamp – The quality of bulb that you will need for your chicks should be red 100-watt bulb for small brooders and a red 250-watt bulb for larger brooders. However, be extra diligent with a red 250-watt bulb as it could lead to under heating or overheating of the chicks. A red bulb will lead to a decline in which chicks peck at one another.

3) Thermometer – A great tool that is necessary for monitoring the temperature in the chick brooder.

4) Litter / Bedding – There are many different options which you can use for your chicks. However, we do think that the best litter is pine, aspen or hardwood shavings are most suitable for chicks (not wood chips or mulch). Additionally, we do not recommend cedar shavings due to the aromas that they put off.

5) Feeder – Shop around and see which one best suits your chicks. Example Feeder- one that is long and consist of multi-slots. Or even a trough style feeder that allows easy access for multiple chicks.

6) Waterer – Chicks must receive fresh water every day and have water available at all times! For every 5 chicks just equate that to a gallon of water. Be sure that you purchase a waterer that will accommodate all your chicks and allow for easy access.

7) Earth First Poultry Feed Chick Starter – this is a “complete” formula for chicks that provides the essential ingredients for healthy growth. This chick starter can be fed from hatch until laying age, or if a broiler, until harvest size is reached (+/- 10 weeks age).

8) Chick Supplements – Supplements can aid in your chicks growth. A suggested idea may be chick grit, this needs to be added very minimally as in a dash. Additionally, this grit should be fed at a rate of 4-5 times per week. Grit helps chicks not only develop healthy gizzards but it allows for the optimal feeding digestion to take place.