Pack N play & Heat lamps

[MsMary92]

Hello everyone!

So I'm new to this whole chicken hatching business but I've made the leap and it's happening! I'm getting my eggs April 1. I have my incubator all set up and ready to go. My question is regarding the brooder. Ive been trying to find the most cost effective (and safe) brooder as they'll be on my basement for a little while (it's still -22 outside here ). So what are your thoughts on a playpen/pack N play with a heat lamp? Would there be a safe way to set it up so I'm not anxiously trying to sleep and hope the house doesn't burn down. Or if you have an alternative suggestion for a brooder it would be so appreciated! Any other thoughts or tips would also be appreciated!

 

[cavemanrich]

The pack n pay is fine. I would want you to consider this option for your heating source. Here is a thread started by @Blooie ,, and has much great info.
https://www.backyardchickens.com/th...d-in-the-brooder-picture-heavy-update.956958/WISHING YOU BEST,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,, and

 

[JaeG]

If you do go with a heat lamp I'd make a hardware cloth screen to sit on top of your brooder so that there's no way the light can fall into the brooder. We use an indoor rabbit cage as a brooder in our house as you can put blankets around it to keep heat in when needed, then take them off when the temperature is warmer and the heat lamp sits on top on the cage wire and cannot fall in. Good luck with your hatch. Feel free to share photos of your cute little chicks too.