9 week old polish are anti coop

[Xlynnex]

Looks like the space just in front of the nest box is usable, the other side isn't mainly because it sits under where the birds on top would be pooping from.

Since it's hard to gauge from photos, what's the distance between those roosts? That is, if Brahmas are on top and Polish were on bottom, can the Brahmas reach down from the top roost to peck at the Polish on bottom? I have to assume there's no coop cam to be able to confirm that for sure, but my guess is the Polish are getting bullied onto the floor due to the confines of the coop.

They can’t really reach down and peck from where they are, I think it might actually be a sight problem.

 

[aart]

I think it might actually be a sight problem.

It is, for sure.
Almost all floppy topped birds are visually impaired to a degree.
Blocks their peripheral vision above and even worse when feathers are covering their eyes.
Tying feathers back can work, trimming them is even better.

 

[PurpleDaze]

That could be it, I wonder if they can’t see well. Does it hurt them to tie their head feathers back? I was wondering if I should do something about that, they def have a hard time seeing.

It doesn't hurt them, you just need to make sure that it's not to tight. If their feathers are being pulled back (like a face lift) then it's to tight.

 

[Xlynnex]

It is, for sure.
Almost all floppy topped birds are visually impaired to a degree.
Blocks their peripheral vision above and even worse when feathers are covering their eyes.
Tying feathers back can work, trimming them is even better.

I’m so afraid I’m going to hurt them trimming the wrong feathers. I’m a newbie to this, and read you have to be super careful.

 

[rosemarythyme]

Just trim enough of the feathers so they can see side to side and up without issue. Don't have to cut back too severely.

 

[Xlynnex]

It’s warm enough is it bad to just leave them in our secure run? I feel like when it’s cold they will hopefully understand it’s not where they should be, has anyone done this?

 

[rosemarythyme]

It’s warm enough is it bad to just leave them in our secure run? I feel like when it’s cold they will hopefully understand it’s not where they should be, has anyone done this?

That's up to you, if you're ok with it and feel the run is safe enough, nothing says they must sleep indoors.

As my run isn't completely secure I don't give my chickens an option, they must be locked in at night.