Can chicks go out after the rain?

[maryn7]

It's rained most of the day, so the grass is wet - but I have three 4-week-old girls that usually get to go out into the backyard (supervised) a couple times a day when the weather's been warm enough. Its about 70F now, so it'll be the warmest it's been when they've been outside.

They *love* being outside, and have been desperate to get out of the brooder every time I've visit them today. The barred rock is about to lose it.

Basically, they're very mad at me because I won't let them play. Can I put them out in the damp grass? Or is that a bad idea? Will they even want to run around?

They're on 80F in their brooder and it's very dry in there.

 

[rosemarythyme]

Should be fine, I let mine out after rain. Just don't let them get soaked all the way through.

 

[wyoDreamer]

How is their feathering? If they are mostly feathered, they should be fine. But if they still have alot of down, they may get chilled fast. Watch and see how they act - if they act cold, they need to get dry and warm. Happy peeping or distressed peeping will let you know.

@ 4 weeks, mine were mostly feathered and would be fine out in the wet grass.

 

[maryn7]

Thanks! They've got a lot of feathers, but still some down on the sides and bottom.

As an update for others that might have the same question. Mine were fine with it. They mostly avoided the wet grass and checked out the hardscape areas. The barred rock found a slug and was quite pleased with herself. They never got themselves wet, so didn't feel the need to dry them off before going back.

Getting them *back* into the brooder is more of a challenge everyday. A full-on 5 minute Benny Hill routine to grab the barred rock. She's so bold; I'm a bit worried she's a cockerel - she's got a wee little comb and it's a little pinker than the others, but she has all the other signs of a pullet. Just trying to be patient until she gives me more info.

Thanks again for the advice!