HELP HELP HELP

[manctank]

Okay

I need help here i bought myself a nice coop that will hold about 6-8 chickens comfortably,last Sunday i bought my self 3 buff orpington chickens and 2 Delawares and they will not go in the hen house at night i have put a small light in there they have purina layer pellet to feed on up there as well and all they wanna do is roost on the floor of the coop. I have tried showing them into the hen house by putting them in there myself i am at a total loss how to get them in there. ANY IDEAS WOULD HELP.

 

[donrae]

This is where a picture is invaluable

. If we can get a pic, we can help troubleshoot for you. Also, how old are your birds?

 

[manctank]

the coop is like this 4ftw 8ftlong 6ft high except i have a ladder coming down from the hen house

 

[manctank]

The birds are between 3-6 mths old when i bought them they told me all 5 are laying now i also forgot to mention i have a guinea to this flock to help with predators.

 

[manctank]

this is mine being built

 

[BantamFan4Life]

Welcome to BYC! I'm glad you joined us!

 

[manctank]

thank you

 

[yochickiemomma]

Have you tried putting them inside after dark? It might take some time for them to get used to the new set up. My chickens wanted to sleep in a 'dog pile' for a few weeks after I put up permanent roosts for them.

 

[manctank]

I am doing that now they also have roots inside the chicken house

 

[donrae]

I think the ladder is your issue. I have walk-in coops myself so no personal experience, but I think they need something more like a solid ramp to walk up. Hopping/flapping from step to step is going to be difficult for them and they may not get it. it may also be a bit steep.

I would also not expect to add anymore birds to that coop. I think the 5 you already have pretty much max out your available space. More would invite behaviors from overcrowding.