Are chickens afraid of the dark?

[lfunderburk]

My chicks are about 7 weeks old and have been out side for about a week now. During the day they are all over their pen and seem to be happy. My problem starts at night, when the sun goes down they all huddle up in corner of pen closest to gate and chirp very loudly(not a happy chirp) and refuse to go into the house when it is dark. As soon as I go out and turn the light on they run straight in the house and are content. Is there something i can do about this or am I stuck having to turn on a night light for them every nite

 

[thebanthams]

Yes they cant see very well at night. you may have to guide them in their coop before dark, they will learn fast!

 

[lfunderburk]

They go into their coop on their own just before dark but come out after it gets dark and won't stay in the house until the light is turned on no matter how many times you lead them in. How do I convince them that it is OK to stay in the house with out a light?

 

[thebanthams]

I always closed my doors. I dont know what your coop is like, but they will have to know lights out ! and close the door. they will be fine!

 

[centrarchid]

Can you make so light levels in coop do not drop so fast. They are often reluctant to enter dark places even as night approaches. They want to see their way to roost.