Chickens don't like the dark

[lwgosik98]

My chicks are about 6 weeks I'm putting them in there permanent coop this week as a test run I put them in it for one night when it got dark they laid in the coop an dident move at all are they scarred of the dark I'm afraid if they are they won't eat or drink. Will they get used to the dark or no an will they drink an eat in the dark or wait till light ?

 

[YardBirdMom]

They are like people at night and go to sleep When the sun comes up they wake up and will eat and drink again!

If it makes you feel better you can put a light in for a night or two, but it isn't really necessary! It's SO exciting to get them into their new coop, huh?!

 

[Ol Grey Mare]

They are not afraid of the dark, and it is natural for them to not eat or drink during the night - night is the time in which their instincts tell them to settle in and sleep.

 

[lwgosik98]

Thank you both so much Fir the help I can relax now. I'm so excited to see how they grow an settle into their new home !

 

[cafarmgirl]

Does the coop have any windows that allow for natural light? Chickens don't naturally want to be in an enclosed, dark box, unless they are laying an egg of course! If a coop gets plenty of natural light they will go to roost as it gets dark and will be more comfortable going to sleep as it gets dark rather then being plunged into total darkness all at once by being enclosed into a windowless coop.

 

[YardBirdMom]

You are welcome! It is very exciting to see them adjust to their new surroundings. Mine have been in their new coop for almost a month now and have tripled in size! I am amazed at how fast chickens grow!!!!

I have some in the brooder that are a month younger and the size difference is unbelievable! Good luck with your babies