1. Brooder Setup :
- Set up a brooder with a heat lamp to maintain the temperature at 95°F (35°C) for the first week.
- Reduce the temperature by 5°F each week until fully feathered (about 6 weeks old).
2. Feeding :
- Provide chick starter feed (20-24% protein) for the first 6-8 weeks.
- Transition to grower feed (16-18% protein) until they start laying.
- Provide layer feed (16% protein) once they begin laying eggs.
3. Water :
- Ensure constant access to clean, fresh water.
- Use chick waterers to prevent drowning.
4. Space :
- Provide 0.5 to 1 square foot per chick in the brooder.
- Increase space as they grow to prevent overcrowding.
5. Health and Monitoring :
- Monitor for signs of illness or stress.
- Vaccinate and deworm as needed.
- Provide grit if feeding anything other than commercial feed.