So I hear a lot about frostbite these days. It's getting colder here in Alabama. Last night, the low was 24 degrees. That, ladies and gentlemen, is ridiculous! (I despise the cold!) However, if you really think about it, Chickens farther north are surviving just fine with no heat lamps in negative degree temperatures! Both of my coops are well ventilated, but still, I worry about my flock, especially my youngest two who are in a small coop by themselves. Big enough to be outside, but too small to go in with the big girls that can be mean old bullies to the little guys.
I've read a lot about provisions to prevent frostbite, but I'd like to know what people actually use. Some people suggest rubbing combs and wattles down with vaseline. I've heard the suggestion of olive oil. One lady even said she covered them in crisco. I also found little knitted bonnets on etsy. I am not about to tie hats onto my girls, but if a drop of oil or a smudge of grease will help, I'm all in. (After all, in the summer, when their feet get dry, I'm out there rubbing their toes, combs and wattles with "Mane and Tail Hoof Builder". Why not something in the winter too?
I've read a lot about provisions to prevent frostbite, but I'd like to know what people actually use. Some people suggest rubbing combs and wattles down with vaseline. I've heard the suggestion of olive oil. One lady even said she covered them in crisco. I also found little knitted bonnets on etsy. I am not about to tie hats onto my girls, but if a drop of oil or a smudge of grease will help, I'm all in. (After all, in the summer, when their feet get dry, I'm out there rubbing their toes, combs and wattles with "Mane and Tail Hoof Builder". Why not something in the winter too?
