06/07/2026
CORRECT BROODER TEMPERATURE FOR EVERY WEEK
Many farmers focus on feed and vaccines but forget one of the most important factors in poultry production—BROODER TEMPERATURE.
Newly hatched chicks cannot regulate their body temperature effectively. Unlike older birds, they depend on external heat to keep warm. If the brooder is too cold, chicks pile together, become stressed, eat less, and may die from chilling. If it is too hot, chicks become dehydrated, eat less feed, and grow poorly.
The goal of brooding is to provide chicks with a comfortable environment that mimics the warmth they would receive from a mother hen.
Recommended Brooder Temperature Schedule
Week 1 (Day 1–7)
Temperature: 32–35°C
This is the most critical period. Chicks are highly vulnerable to cold stress.
Observe the chicks:
✔ Evenly spread out = Correct temperature
✔ Huddled together under the heat source = Too cold
✔ Staying far from the heat source = Too hot
Week 2 (Day 8–14)
Temperature: 29–32°C
Reduce temperature by approximately 3°C.
Chicks should become more active, consume more feed, and begin developing feathers.
Week 3 (Day 15–21)
Temperature: 26–29°C
Continue reducing heat gradually.
Feather growth increases and chicks become better at regulating body temperature.
Week 4 (Day 22–28)
Temperature: 23–26°C
In warm tropical areas, supplemental heating may only be required during cold nights.
Week 5 (Day 29–35)
Temperature: 20–23°C
Most birds can now maintain their own body temperature under normal conditions.
Week 6 and Beyond
Temperature: 18–21°C
Brooding is generally complete. Birds should be fully feathered and capable of coping with normal environmental temperatures.
Signs the Brooder Is Too Cold
• Chicks crowd together under the heater.
• Loud continuous chirping.
• Reduced feed and water intake.
• Slow growth.
• Increased mortality.
• Wet litter around drinkers due to crowding.
Signs the Brooder Is Too Hot
• Chicks move away from the heat source.
• Panting w
