Chickens out in coop, won't go outside....

[Sand blister]

I'm sure many have had this problem. I put the chickens into the coop for the first time yesterday. They are almost 6 weeks old. Fully feathered. They were scared. Even shaking a little. I'm sure it's a new spot kind of thing. But they just won't go outside. Put them in at 4 pm. Left food outside thinking they would get hungry and start looking. But nothing. It was around 8 pm that I decided to put in temporary food and water inside.

This morning they wouldnt go out either. I left for work around 11 am so that's all I saw.

What's the next step? Should I take out the food and the hunger will force them out ?

Any ideas would be great. Thanks.

 

[ChickenCanoe]

They're all individuals. I've had batches of chicks that ventured out without a mother at 5 days and other flocks that were scared to go out at 10 weeks. No rhyme or reason.
They'll venture when they're ready. It is probably more related to the new surroundings. Relax and give them time.

 

[Sand blister]

Cool. Should I keep the food and water inside?

 

[ChickenCanoe]

I usually do to keep the wild birds from eating it. The water is OK too as long as it doesn't spill.

 

[aart]

I'd keep them in the coop for a week so they 'home' to the coop.....
.......and of course they need food and water, I keep it inside all the time to deter wild birds and it's just easier for me.

Do you have a run for them?

 

[Sand blister]

I do have a run. its 12x4 so not huge but not that small for 4 chicks. They keep peeking out the door but wont make the move.

 

[aatx]

I agree with the above poster. Keep them locked inside the coop for 5-7 days, then open up the run to them.