Chickens in the rain

[gottsegnet]

I am new to this chicken thing, but just opened the tractor to let my pullets stretch in their yard. I assumed they'd go back in or seek other shelter when they had enough of the rain.

But they're all just sitting there in the middle of the daisies getting soaked. One poked its head under the dominant bird, & they all shake themselves regularly, but otherwise seem unconcerned.

There is plenty of shelter out there...should I put them inside or are they fine wherever they choose to be?

 

[ozark hen]

Hi there and welcome to byc! If they are too young they can actually drown by just keeping their mouth's open and looking up. They aren't too smart when young. I actually do not know the age that encompasses though. I would guess before they are fully feathered out? Anyway, since they are huddling together...I would go herd them into some sort of shelter. Seems like they are too young to figure that out for themselves. I have 16 wk old chickens who run for shelter when it is pouring. If it is sprinkling out it is ok.

 

[gottsegnet]

It is an all day drizzle kind of rain. They are three months old and find shade in the sun just fine. They went in once on their roost, but then came right back out.

 

[ozark hen]

Quote:
Sounds to me you answered your own question...they will be fine since they know where the coop and other shelter is at. Just keep an eye on them they may be enjoying it?

 

[gottsegnet]

I just thought they looked kinda miserable all huddled in the daisies. Their run isn't the best shelter as it is currently open to the wind & they seem to have picked a place out of the wind, just not out of the rain. But it isn't really windy. In the heat of the day they go hide under an old wagon. I was expecting them to end up there, I guess.

Thank you!

 

[crzychicken]

my chicks and chicken don't mind the rain they go under a tree or bush even back in their coops when they had enough of it most look like drowned rats.

 

[gottsegnet]

That's what bothered me...the drowned rat look. But they are back to pecking about. I forgot about their little siesta they take every day around noon or I wouldn't have worried about them.