You will need a wire cage.
It will come in handy for Hospital rehab chickens, quarantine chickens, selling buying chickens.
It is just good to have one handy.
Cmom made the one I got. I do not know if she still wrestles wire or has retired from the sport.
Yes they slow down in the heat, and then they slow down again because of the days getting shorter.
If you wish for them to lay in the winter months you need to light them.
I can not get a good enough look from the picture.
Does it get white flowers with a yellow center about as big as a nickel?
if so it is Bidens alba, and it is safe.
If it is small white flower that hangs down and has a berry, it might be a nightshade and no, it is not good for them, but mine...
Oh, love your brooder box!
We got a used rabbit hutch and I thought it would make a good broody hutch. I think the roof coming off would be better than a front door though. It would be easier to clean, and to move a grumpy hen about that way.
Spring usually. The buffs will be the first to start and the last to shake it off.
Keep an eye on the broody buffs. They will starve themselves. Be sure to pick them up and take them outside for food and water, or they won't budge on their own. The eggs will handle a short respite.
About the weather, Yea, I am sorry. It is all my fault. Last year was so warm I kicked myself for not having a winter garden. This year I planted a winter garden.
Expect six or eight feet of snow.