Brooder progress

The basement is nearly ready... yes, the chicks will be residing in the basement until approximately the end of April.  They may move to the outdoor coop once they have all their flight feathers and their bodies are better able to regulate their temperature.  In fact, once outside, they may still depend on a heat lamp for a few weeks, depending upon Ohio weather.

Brooder box 

Mike brought home several nice pieces of corrugated scrap (the treasures of his trade) that he then trimmed and taped together with the kids' "help" last night.  We have essentially constructed a giant playpen for our chicks.  Was funny to be reminded of the simple joys of childhood - tape and cardboard! The kids giggled with anticipation as they assisted with Dad's construction of something so grand.  They were so obedient and eager to help with ANYTHING - it is always magical to witness such awe through their eyes.

The chicks will reside on top of a bedding made of pine shavings while housed indoors.  A heat lamp is in place to help keep them above 85 degrees -- adjusting it as needed.  We have learned what to watch for, in terms of clues, so the brooder is at the proper temperatures.   As they grow and mature, the heat demands will lesson.

Brooder with heat lamp on - testing temps before arrival

So, now we wait.... but in the mean time, the weather has warmed for a few days, so we worked in the yard some this afternoon and will do the same tomorrow as well.  I worked in the garden this early evening, tearing out the old pepper plants and tomato plants that I never got to last fall.  I trimmed the mums in the front yard that became snow covered before I could cut them back in November. Linc worked on locating all his toys that have been in storage all winter long - taking a mental log of what still needs to be found.   The girls discovered new plant growth and feverishly worked to transplant some young seedlings to new locations.  Apparently they felt Mother Nature allowed the new plants to take root in "not so good places."

(I didn't have the heart to tell them that the center of the yard, where Dad will eventually mow with the tractor may not be prime location either. Afterall, we are in Ohio - who is to say one more frost or snowfall isn't still on its way!)  

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