Chickens dying from cold

[bluebird]

There must be something seriously wrong with your coop heating/insulation. Either that, or their dying of something else?

 

[Minky]

Yes, but your fingers aren't covered in a nice thick down coat.

But their combs arent either!!!

 

[bobbi-j]

But their combs arent either!!!

There is that. I did find this, though:
"How it’s made
The comb is made up of collagen fibers in the form of protein bundles, similar to that of a rubber band, helping to give the comb its elasticity. Several layers comprise the comb: The outer layer is called the epidermis. It is the least vascularized area of the comb. Just under the skin is a network of sinus capillaries, packed tightly together. Below that are the deep capillaries. These capillaries are close to the surface of the skin and are why even a small abrasion to the comb will cause bleeding.

The comb is a highly vascularized organ consisting of a network of arteries, veins, capillary blood vessels, and an intricate network of sinus capillaries and arterioles making up a micro-circulation system, similar to systems in the heart and brain of humans. The main blood supply to the comb is supplied by an artery located at the base of the skull directly under the comb. This artery also supplies blood to the masseter muscle, which controls opening and closing the jaw while also supplying blood flow to the eyelids and tongue.

Throughout the middle section of the comb, arteries and veins crisscross similar to a checkerboard pattern. This allows for rapid heat exchange between the blood vessels. Blood is pumped into the comb and temporarily held there through a network of shunts that open and close as needed. This network of blood vessels helps the bird maintain its body temperature during the heat of summer and the cold of winter."

I found that last sentence interesting and helpful.

 

[centrarchid]

During much of the night at least they sleep with comb largely covered by feathers. I have been out several times tonight chasing owl issues to verify. When partially alert the head will be exposed.

 

[PirateGirl]

Another question, how old are your chickens? The very young and very old may have different needs. Also have they been sick in the past?

I lost 2 pullets when it was very cold (around zero F or below) they were young (maybe 7 weeks) and stressed and had recently moved to my home so their environment was new. Illness surfaced, likely something they were already carrying. They couldn't fight it, even after I moved them into my bathroom and got them antibiotics. BUT The others lived with some TLC.

I hope the collective knowledge of this group can help you to save the rest. It's hard when our flock suffers a loss and it's easy to blame ourselves and feel helpless. There is still hope for your remaining birds!

 

[Chullicken]

I was really hoping to read a response from the author about this today..

 

[GodofPecking]

I've lost a few to cold, I solved it with an old fridge.

its been a few years and they love fridges, especially in bad weather, its the ultimate blanket for no outlay of money.

 

[jeepgrrl]

I've lost a few to cold, I solved it with an old fridge.

its been a few years and they love fridges, especially in bad weather, its the ultimate blanket for no outlay of money.

How awesome! That is a great way to upcycle an old fridge! I bet it does keep your flock nice and toasty and dry!

 

[enoryz]

I've lost a few to cold, I solved it with an old fridge.

its been a few years and they love fridges, especially in bad weather, its the ultimate blanket for no outlay of money.

We definitely need more pics of the fridge coop!

 

[Blooie]

How do you provide ventilation?