Can I put my chicks out without a heat source yet?

[letitiah81]

I have several baby chicks in my house varying ages from 4 weeks to a few days. I have my coop ready, but the temperature is still dipping into the 30 where I live. How soon can I put the oldest out with temps getting this low? I can not put a heat source in my coop.

 

[junebuggena]

Start getting them used to outdoor temps by taking them out for 'field trips' to their coop. Start with short trips and gradually work your way up to leaving them out for several hours at a time. Within two weeks, they should be acclimated enough to stay out permanently.

 

[drumstick diva]

Usually you wait till they are fully feathered out - about 6-8 weeks of age. You leave them out for short periods on the nice days and see how they do. If they stand around shivering, bring them back inside.

 

[Pork Pie]

Hi and welcome to BYC - you have some great advice already so I'll just say hello!

All the best
CT

 

[BantamFan4Life]

Welcome to BYC! I'm glad you joined us!