Chick care & first 48 hoursUpdated a month ago
Bringing home baby chicks is exciting. A little preparation ahead of time makes all the difference in helping them get off to a healthy start.
Before Your Chicks Arrive
Once your chicks arrive at the post office, you are responsible for picking them up promptly and placing them into a properly prepared brooder.
Before arrival, make sure everything is fully set up and ready, including:
A brooder
Clean bedding
A heat source set to 100 to 105 degrees
Fresh food
Fresh water
Your brooder should already be warm when the chicks get home. Setting it up after arrival increases stress and health risks.
We provide a detailed care sheet to guide you through preparation. We strongly recommend reviewing it when you place your order so you can prepare in advance, and again when your chicks arrive. You can find it here.
Being prepared ahead of time gives your chicks the best possible start.
The First 24 to 48 Hours
The first day is important. Plan to monitor your chicks closely.
During the first 24 hours:
Monitor brooder temperature
Ensure food and water are easily accessible
Observe normal activity and behavior
Your brooder must maintain a warm zone of 100 to 105 degrees for at least the first 48 hours. It should also include a cooler area so chicks can move away from the heat if needed.
If you notice any concerns related to unsafe delivery conditions, contact us promptly.
Please note that The Chicken Coop Company does not guarantee mortalities or morbidities after safe and timely delivery on the day of arrival.
Heat Lamp or Heat Plate?
For mail-order chicks, we strongly recommend using a heat lamp for the first two weeks.
After shipping, chicks need to be warmed quickly and consistently. A heat lamp provides the immediate ambient heat required. Most heat plates do not provide enough warmth during those first critical days.
After two weeks, you may transition to a heat plate if preferred. At that stage, chicks are stronger and better able to regulate their body temperature. Moving away from constant light also supports a more natural day and night rhythm.
Are Chicks Shipped With Heat Packs?
Yes. Chicks are typically shipped with heat packs to provide warmth during transit.
Heat packs are designed to simulate a mother hen’s warmth and are positioned to provide consistent heat without overheating. Shipping boxes are also ventilated for airflow.
Even with heat packs, prompt pickup upon arrival is essential.