Chickens afraid???

[mldlm]

I need some input, please. I have 2 white leghorns and two blue Australorps. They are 12 weeks old tomorrow. We had been raising them in a sentinel coop from TSC, but three days ago, moved them to a renovated shed/coop. It is approximately 10x7’. They have roosting bars - 3. They go in and out to the run all day, and even stay in the coop for part of the day. Here’s the problem…when I put them in for the night tonight, they all huddled at the front corner on the floor almost panicked and afraid. My husband and I moved everything around on the storage side (divided by framed wire), thinking maybe a snake was in there or something, but there was nothing. I am attaching pics of the coop. Anyone ever have this problem? Any ideas or suggestions? My apologies for the long message, but I don’t know what to do. Thanks

 

[nuthatched]

It's just that chickens don't like change, they'll get used to it. Nice coop!

 

[Mrs. K]

yeah in a week they will be fine. Chickens just hate a change - even when it is a better change.

 

[mldlm]

Update: Things are starting to settle in. When I went out this morning to let them out, the leghorns were on the roost and the other two were walking around. Yay!!!

On another topic, I have two week old chicks that I have a space set up for in the coop with the other chickens. They will be in a separate section with the brooder warmer and food and water. This is ok, right? They will stay in that are for a while, but it will help with acclimating the flock to each other. Any thoughts on this? It gets down to about 78 at night, but mid 90s in the day, but they will have their warmer to go under.

 

[NorthwoodsChick]

chicks should be fine. 78 at night..that’s warm.

 

[NorthwoodsChick]

I have a brooder section in my coop. it gets down to 40’ at night. as long as they have the option to get under the heat plate they will be ok.
Can you go to your profile and add your general location? it helps in answering concerns that may relate to climate.

 

[mldlm]

I am not sure how to put my location. I am in Northeast Florida.

 

[Mrs. K]

Yep the two week old chicks will be fine at those temperatures, and I bet they hardly use the heat plate. They will really not need it more than a week. I would let them outside in the sunshine and fresh air for a couple of hours every day, gradually lengthen the time. Do make sure a wind break and a bit of shade are options when they are outside. A tote or a box laid on its side will work.

Fresh air and sunshine are important for birds. Sometimes people keep them in two small of areas trying to keep them safe and warm. When in reality, they need exercise, space and fresh air.

Mrs K

 

[3KillerBs]

I am not sure how to put my location. I am in Northeast Florida.

If you go to your "Account Details" you'll find a place to add your location.