Are there really only 4 months/year when. . .

[chickbea]

I have used red heat lamps on the winter nights when I know it is going to get to ten below or worse.

 

[Bec]

In your opinion, do you think it was better than using a regular bulb?
And does it hurt them to have a low watt heat bulb on all winter?

 

[chickonaroost]

I bought a red heat lamp and the bulb lasted only about 3 weeks-and it was expensive. The regular heat light as about 60% cheaper and it lasted all winter. I turned it on a dusk and off in the a.m., unless it was REALLY cold-then I left it on 24/7. It is a small coop, but it kept their water from freezing and they laid all winter.
PS-I've read that if you have a wounded bird with a 'bloody' spot, a red light neutralizes the color of the spot and the others won't peck it.

 

[Bec]

Very interesting!! Thank you so much....I was palnning on having a heat bulb of some sort in there for the winter, but didn't know what was better for them. I want them to have a wamr place to sleep..or atleast warmer than outside!! lol

 

[GoodEgg]

I have wondered about this. I am afraid mine will start to lay just in time to stop (or perhaps not lay at all this whole year?). I hope not ... I need the eggs!

Right now I leave a porch light on, that just shines into the coop (not for day engthening, more like a night light). It gives enough light to see very dim outlines. I don't know how well chickens see in the dark, but it lets me see them somewhat. They all settle and stay put with more light than that though, so maybe it's no point at all. I just like being able to see around the coop when I look out.

trish