4 AM: A problem or totally normal?

[CindyinSD]

I suggest closing off any windows through which outside light could enter the coop. Get some black-out blinds if you have to. Feed them late then turn off the lights. When they’re on their roosts, pull the blinds or close the shutters. Try to exclude all light but without closing off needed ventilation. You’ll have to be creative, I’m sure. Maybe relocating the motion light would help, depending on where it is in relation to the coop and any possible light leaks. You ought to move it occasionally if you can, anyway, so predators don’t get used to it.

 

[aart]

That motion light is needed in case a predator gets into their yard.

Just turn it off....it isn't going to hinder predators and is obviously causing a problem.
Try it, you'll like it!

 

[KikiDeAnime]

Just turn it off....it isn't going to hinder predators and is obviously causing a problem.
Try it, you'll like it!

Can't turn it off without taking it off the coop. Its solar powered

 

[aart]

Can't turn it off without taking it off the coop. Its solar powered

Cover the solar panel and/or the motion detector window....
...or take it down(what, a couple of screws?)

 

[HenOnAJuneBug]

Can't turn it off without taking it off the coop. Its solar powered

If the battery is removed it can't shine at night.

 

[blackdog043]

Make your coop predator proof if it's not and take the light down. You could put a game camera up, if you want to see what's lurking around at night. Also get a head lamp with a red light and you won't bother the chickens if you have to check on them in the dark.

 

[KikiDeAnime]

Make your coop predator proof if it's not and take the light down. You could put a game camera up, if you want to see what's lurking around at night. Also get a head lamp with a red light and you won't bother the chickens if you have to check on them in the dark.

It IS predator proof.
We currently DON'T have anything lurking around! How many times do I have to state this?! Our amazing dogs would alert us if there was.

 

[blackdog043]

So take the light down and your problem is solved!

 

[BGcoop]

Ok, so what answer are you looking for? People are trying to help and you are shooting down every single suggestion. And yes we know your dogs are “amazing” but it IS possible that there is something that the chickens notice that the dogs don’t, or that the dogs don’t see as a threat, or that sneak past while the dogs are sleeping, etc. etc. etc. because if your dogs truly alerted EVERYTHING than they would never be quiet because they would be alerting the chickens, and mice, and bugs, and rats, and leaves.....

 

[2 many chickens]

The light is your problem. Take it down. This has been stated many of times. A light isn't going to stop a truly hungry predator anyways.

Or you can just keep being awake at 4 am feeding chickens. It's up to you. You have been given great advice here by many people.