6 week old chicks in the rain?

[DraftXJumper]

My chicks are about 5.5 weeks old, and love to go outside every day for several hours to forage and take naps in the dirt. We are almost done with their coop & run, but for now, they're still sleeping in a brooder in the garage. My question is: is it OK to put them outside in their "playpen" on a rainy day if I cover it with a tarp? I feel that it would be cruel to keep them inside all day, but it is supposed to rain all day today. It's only 65º as well, but they have most of their big girl feathers.

 

[ronott1]

They will be fine in the rain. The important thing is for them to have a nice dry place to go at night. Wet chickens at night is not good because of the deep sleep they go into at night.

 

[ChickNanny13]

I would also put a plastic bin on its side with some shaving for shelter from any draft, maybe overkill but

 

[Sara Ranch]

My chicks are outside full time now. They come and go from the coop as desired. I have sheets up to provide shade. I left a tall patch of grass for shelter. And I have a 40 gallon bucket on it's side to provide additional protection from stuffs.

My chicks (went out about 6 and 7 weeks) love the rain. They stay outside when it sprinkles. And it's pours, they often hang out under the sheets and enjoy the cool breeze that usually comes with the rain.

Your chicks should be fine. Always provide a safe place for them to "hide" from overhead predators.