Chickens at night.

[momiller]

Is it necessary to close chickens up in their coop at night if they are in a totally enclosed area?

 

[bluto in mo]

I wouldn't think so. My sister doesn't close them up at all. She has a 6ft chain link fence only for a pen. The coup is an old shed with a hole cut out no door. They have no problems. She had chicken for 10yrs

 

[Pork Pie]

Hi and welcome to BYC - glad that you have joined us.

Opinions differ regarding your question, but in the absence of an automatic pop door to let your chickens out very early during the summer, its a good idea.

Best wishes
CT

 

[marilyn1]

[/IMG]
I would I had a opossum come in and get one of my silkies. I have a dog box in that enclosure in back. They used to sleep there. I trained them to go into a carrier at the front. I just go out at night and bring them in. Of course I only have 4 girls.

 

[drumstick diva]

It's better to lock them in the coop at dusk. Night brings out some of the more skillful, predators and they can take their time figuring out a way to get your birds. Better safe than sorry.

Birds do not like to move around in the dark, so are sitting ducks waiting to be slaughtered. Years of answering new members on here, has taught me so.

 

[BantamFan4Life]

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

 

[momiller]

Thanks! We only have 7 - we have had 16 straight days of rain - poor things are spending more time in their coop than they want I'm sure! I see you have a goat in your profile - we have 6 bohr goats - love them!

 

[chickenweirdo1]

Great to have another poultry lover!