HD100GB Issue 8
6
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
36°C (97°F) 33°C (91°F) 29.5°C (85°F) 27°C (80°F)
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.
4.9 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.
5.0 Humidity
Elevated air temperatures in the TLC-4 will reduce the relative humidity level (RH) and can
cause dehydration. A water reservoir is fitted to counteract this effect.
5.1 Your TLC-4 brooder is fitted with a water reservoir (see fig.1) which humidifies air as it is
drawn into the brooder through the air inlet filter. Use a solution of Brinsea Incubation
Disinfectant (1part concentrate to 100 parts water) in the water reservoir to inhibit bacterial
build-up. It is recommended that the reservoir is topped up with solution daily to reduce
dehydration. This can be a particular problem with chick(s).
5.2 To further increase humidity levels within the brooder the water reservoir is fitted with a block
of absorbent paper mesh as standard. This block may be cut down in length with a sharp knife
or removed entirely to give lower humidity levels. The block can provide a breeding ground
for bacteria. In addition to the use of Brinsea Incubation Disinfectant concentrate in the water,
it is recommended that the block is replaced every 2 months of use.
6.0 Introducing young birds
Once the correct temperature has been established and the air humidified the TLC-4 is ready
for use.
6.1 For newly hatched chicks use the nest tubs supplied lined with paper towel. Young patients of
similar age and size can be placed together and benefit from the warmth and comfort. If
disparity in size is too great the smaller animal is at risk of being crushed or smothered.
6.2 For larger chicks and adult birds line the base of the TLC-4 with paper towelling and place the
patient(s) directly on this. Alternatively, plastic liners are available from Brinsea Products,
call 0845 2260120 or visit www.brinsea.co.uk for more details.
