Keeping chickens in winter

[jubylives]

I'm designing my coop. I live in Iowa and the winters can get pretty harsh. I'm going to insulate the structure floors walls and ceiling along with ventilation that can be regulated and shut off. When last I had chickens it was in Oklahoma where winters weren't like here. Anyone live in this area? I'd like to see what you did to protect the chickens from the cold. Thanks.

Jeremy

 

[silkiechicken]

Chickens are pretty hardy. I don't live in as cold as you but as long as their housing is draft free, the birds should be fine. Their body heat will warm things up a bit and if necessary you can put in a small light to produce heat in the building if electicity can be run to it. They do better in cold than in heat.