Backyard Fowl Keepers

How do you keep an outdoor brooder comfortable for chicks when temperatures swing between hot and cold? I know its important to keep them warm enough when its cool and cool enough when its hot, so they need space to move where theyre comfortable.

Also, how do you block direct breezes without cutting off ventilation? Ive heard of using plastic down low to stop drafts, but Im wondering what works best in different seasons.

One thing I've found super helpful is using a digital thermometer with a probe inside the brooder. It lets me monitor both heat and humidity levels without disturbing the chicks. I keep one side of the brooder warm with a heat plate and the other cooler. I also wrap the lower half with plastic sheeting during cold snaps to block wind while leaving vent spaces above so air can circulate. This approach has worked well, even in unpredictable spring weather.

Ventilation is key! Open spaces up high let warm air out without letting cold drafts hit the chicks directly.

HenAndTonic wrote: Tue Feb 25, 2025 5:14 pm How do you keep an outdoor brooder comfortable for chicks when temperatures swing between hot and cold? I know its important to keep them warm enough when its cool and cool enough when its hot, so they need space to move where theyre comfortable.

Also, how do you block direct breezes without cutting off ventilation? Ive heard of using plastic down low to stop drafts, but Im wondering what works best in different seasons.

I find heat plates safer and better for temp regulation. Chicks move as needed, and no fire risk like with heat lamps.

I use a combination of natural insulation and strategic heat sources. In winter, I wrap the brooder in clear plastic and place straw bales around the sides, which block wind and retain heat. I also add a heat plate so chicks can warm up when needed. During hot spells, I open ventilation flaps and provide shade to avoid overheating. I always ensure the brooder is large enough for chicks to find their own comfort zone , they'll naturally move to the right spot if the setup is right.