12/05/2026
Bright, open eyes; alert and responsive
Soft, fluffy down; body feels warm
Navel clean, closed, and dry
Stands firmly, walks without
Brooder temperature (critical)
32–35 °C at chick level for week 1
Use a thermometer at chick height (not hanging high)
If they huddle → too cold; pant and spread out → too hot
Water first, then feed
Give clean lukewarm water immediately on arrival
Add glucose/electrolyte for the first few hours to reduce stress
Use a shallow drinker (marbles/pebbles inside to prevent drowning)
🌽 First feed
Start with chick mash/crumbles (starter), ~20–22% protein
Sprinkle a little feed on paper for the first hours so they learn to peck
Keep feed fresh and dry; small amounts, refilled often