This is my first time owing chickens...I have 9 total, 3 Barred Rocks (one rooster and two hens), and 6 Commercial Blacks (BR crosses...all hens).
I have read that chickens can get frostbite in winter on combs and feet. I swapped out their pole roost for a 2x6 so their feet will lay flat and they can sit on them preventing frostbite of their toes. I have no idea how to prevent frostbite of the combs. Any suggestions?
Also, since they can get frostbite, do I not let them free-range in the snow or really cold weather? I let my flock free-range for about 7 hours a day...from noon till dark when they put themselves to bed. I don't let them out before this because I really don't want to have to search my property for eggs. My girls almost always lay their eggs up until noon, so that's why I wait until then to let them roam. Am I supposed to keep them in their coop and/or run during snowy weather?
Thanks!
I have read that chickens can get frostbite in winter on combs and feet. I swapped out their pole roost for a 2x6 so their feet will lay flat and they can sit on them preventing frostbite of their toes. I have no idea how to prevent frostbite of the combs. Any suggestions?
Also, since they can get frostbite, do I not let them free-range in the snow or really cold weather? I let my flock free-range for about 7 hours a day...from noon till dark when they put themselves to bed. I don't let them out before this because I really don't want to have to search my property for eggs. My girls almost always lay their eggs up until noon, so that's why I wait until then to let them roam. Am I supposed to keep them in their coop and/or run during snowy weather?
Thanks!