Brooder Space for Poults

Start day-old poults at 1 square foot per bird in the brooder. By week 4, expand to 2 square feet per bird, and by week 8 provide 3-4 square feet per bird or transition them to a grow-out pen. Turkey poults grow from about 2 oz at hatch to 4-5 lbs by 8 weeks, so plan brooder expansions in advance.

Why It Works

Overcrowded brooders cause pile-ups, smothering, feather picking, and disease transmission. Poults are especially vulnerable to coccidiosis and blackhead in damp, crowded conditions. Gradual space increases match their rapid growth rate and reduce stress during the critical first 8 weeks when mortality risk is highest.

Tips

• Use brooder rings or cardboard barriers in the first week to keep poults within 18 inches of the heat source
• Maintain brooder temperature at 95-100°F for the first week, reducing by 5°F each week until reaching ambient temperature
• Clean bedding every 2-3 days to control moisture and ammonia levels