9
TLC-30 eco
6 BIRD BROODING
For newly hatched chicks, use small plastic tubs such
as ice-cream or butter / spread containers lined with
paper towel.
Young birds of similar age and size can be placed
together to benefit from the warmth and comfort. If
disparity in size is too great, the smaller animal is at
risk of being crushed or smothered.
For larger chicks and adult birds line the base of the
TLC-30 with paper towelling and place the bird(s)
directly on this.
Change the paper towel at each feed or at least four
times a day. Follow feeding regimes recommended for
the species ensuring the highest standards of hygiene
at all times.
Please Note:
It is recommended to pre-heat the TLC-30
and allow the temperature to stabilise before adding
young birds or small animals.
Follow the approximate guide in this section to achieve desired temperature settings. Always allow half an hour
between adjustments for the temperature to stabilise and refer to the glass thermometer to confirm that the
desired temperature has been reached.
Recommended staged temperature settings for most parrots and falcons:
Days 1 to 5
Days 6 to 10
Days 11 to 15
Days 16 to 25
97°F (36°C)
91°F (33°C)
85°F (29.5°C)
80°F (27°C)
These temperatures have been found to promote optimal health and growth from newly hatched chicks and
are a little higher than may be found in nests. Where birds are taken from a nest after more than a few days,
the temperature setting will usually need to be a few degrees lower to prevent heat stress. The
recommendations above are for guidance only, always observe the chick’s behaviour (see below) to verify
setting.
Temperatures too high can cause heat stress, dehydration, deformities or haemorrhaging under the skin. Low
temperature may reduce appetite and retard growth. Observation of the bird is the best guide to its comfort.
Chicks try to huddle together if cold and move about seeking parental warmth. Chicks too warm separate and
pant. In either case they will complain vocally. Comfortable birds will lie quietly sleeping with wings loosely
folded at the sides, usually in contact with one another.
Developing chicks are fairly tolerant of short-term temperature drops but care should be taken about cooling
that occurs during feeding or inspection. Keep the room warm, hold the bird in a cloth to prevent chilling from
cold hands and use warmed feeding utensils.