Chickens in the snow...

[AbbieX]

This morning is the first real snow storm of the season. There are 3 inches on the ground. Do I let my chickens out of the henhouse today?? I don't want them to have foot problems, or do I want them to mud up the hen house. Any thoughts would be appreciated.

 

[redoak]

I'd let them out, if they are cold-hardy breeds. The only chickens I've heard who don't like snow and are cold hardy are feather legged breeds like cochins and brahmas, because the snow gets stuck in their feathers on their legs.

 

[pattypenny]

I would let them out if they would come out. first snow, where do you live?

 

[AbbieX]

Montana!! It's been snowing all day...I did go to the hen house to replenish their water and check their food. One of them started out the door but stopped short of going out. They're kinda like that about new things...although, I'm sure if one of them goes out and the others realize that she isn't any worse for wear, they''ll go out too. Then again...who knows.

 

[Montana-Hens]

Definately let them go out if you have a breed that is considered cold hearty.

I live in Montana and have cold hardy breeds. The ladies are all outside today in the snow.

The only thing my ladies require is that I brush off the ramp from the door. I don't know if it is visual or what but they were peeking out by 9, and out in the snow by 10.

 

[The Chicken Lady]

Here's a nice Montana snow webcam pic so everyone can see. I heard some areas were going to get about three feet.

http://rwis.mdt.mt.gov/scanweb/swfr...layClass=Java&SenType=All&SenStatus=&Camera=1

Here in Michigan, it's 80 degrees and comfortable out. I can't believe you guys are already getting snow!

I'm JEALOUS (I love snow).

 

[KellyHM]

It snows this time of year?! It never snows here, but I didn't know it snowed anywhere in October! Silly me...

 

[spook]

Did you folks realize that S N O W is considered a 4 letter word that is just plain old uncalled for.

I don't let my girls out much in the winter. A small amount of snow, yes as long as its wet, melting type. Other then that I allow them out into the clear plastic "porch". So its up to you, where there is snow, there is mud until the ground freezes.

 

[geoaware]

Geee...where did you think frozen chickens in the supermarket come from?

 

[LynneP]

They might appreciate a bale of hay or straw out there, or a little platform. They might get more light and exercise if they can go *up*, as they love to do!