The equipment used for brooding is called a brooder, which includes heat source, a reflector and brooder-guard. The brooder guard, made from cardboard sheets or mats, prevents the chicks from straying far away from the heat source. Switch on the brooder heating source several hours (6-12) before the arrival of the chicks to maintain required brooding temperature. In case of too low temperature, chicks huddle under the heat source, making noise and some may die due to chilling. While removing the brooder guard, ensure that the corners of the sheds are rounded to avoid huddling.

Source: Daily Nation October 27, 2017 17:03 UTC