Can we talk about snow?

[ashbourn]

I have found alot of birds do not like to walk in snow if it more then an 1/2 inch. The cold is not a issue for most birds as long as they have good water and food, but function is a big issue for me. I live in Sullivan County, NY and we can have a few feet on the ground at times. Around here for a small flock a rabbit hutch like coop is great that attacheds to a covered run that can be as little as 4x4 posts with a roof attached to it. Not only is it easy to build but the coop & run can be custom made to area you have.
Hens also do much better in the cold because of their smaller combs and waddles, they are less prone to frostbite, if you worry alot about them you can put a heat lamp out there. Not only will the light keep them warmer but it can also help winter laying. I have young birds during the winter at times so I do keep the coops warmer then most or just in the young bird's pens but because I do not care much about getting dozens of eggs a day I do not heat the coop with the older birds during the day or unless it gets very very cold.
Joe

 

[Galaxie_Man]

Quote:
That should be kept to a minimum as long as there is a vapor barrier. You can use straight insulation and staple up plastic sheeting over the batts, to go under the wall panels. Or, use what I did, the Owens-Corning Pink R-13 with kraft paper already attached. Either one is considered a fire hazard if left uncovered by any type of wallboard, so be sure to close in the walls afterward. It was around 40F the other night at my house, and it was quite comfortable in the coop when I let them out the next morning.