Changing where chickens roost

[hst8]

Hello,

I live in Phoenix and have 8 adult chickens. Currently they have a very large enclosed run attached to the coop. The issue is in the summer when the nights just don't cool down the inside of the coop is quite warm. We have done a lot of things to help with the heat like a swamp cooler and fan in the coop, it doesn't help a lot when the nights are only down in the 90s. Our thought this year would be to have them roost in the run and close up the coop all together. The run has misters during the day, air flow and natural shade. We have an exterior nesting box and built a new roost for them. We blocked off the coop last night and found them all huddled on the ground by the door to the coop. Any suggestions on how to get them to give up the coop? Thank you in advance.

 

[rosemarythyme]

Why not let them decide if they prefer one or the other? On hot days they may choose to stay out on their own.

 

[aart]

Is there a roost in the run?
Is run predator proof?
Please post pics of coop and run, inside and out.

 

[AmyJane725]

Make a roost in the run that is higher than the roost in the coop. They should pick the highest place available. If they still want the coop though that's fine. If they're too hot they should leave on their own.

 

[blackdog043]

They are used to going in there and feel safe. It will take time for them to get used to not being able to go inside, when it gets dark.

Same questions as @aart
Is there a roost in the run?
Is run predator proof?
Please post pics of coop and run, inside and out.