Chickens Refusing to Come out of Coop!

[love4mychickens]

Okay. I live in Massachusetts so it can get pretty cold. Thank you for the suggestions.

 

[jreardon1918]

Okay. I live in Massachusetts so it can get pretty cold. Thank you for the suggestions.

We must be neighbors. SE Mass here. The humans slept in this morning, so the chickens had to wait until 7:30 to be let out. They tumble out to get the food and water. That could be a difference. We only have the food and water outside. The run is covered so they don't have to deal with snow. Except on free range late afternoons.

 

[Patinas]

From what I've learned watching my flock, they do not like rain, wind or snow. We had a recent light snow and by afternoon, most of it had melted so I let the flock out to range and it was hilarious watching them trying to get to their favorite spots in the yard without stepping on the remaining snow patches. They picked their paths very carefully!

One day not long ago it was super windy and they did not come out of the coop into the run which is very rare for them. No rain, just wind but they were not having it!

When it rains, I don't bother to let them out to range because they just huddle on our covered patio and nap and preen themselves...and poop all over! So rainy days are lockup days around here.

Chickens are smarter than a lot of people give them credit for so trust that what they are doing or not doing is because they know what's best for them. If they want to hang out in the coop all day...let them! Just make sure there's food/water for them and they'll be just fine.

 

[love4mychickens]

Okay, They have food and water and clean shavings. I give them there treats and they seem happy! Thank you for the suggestion!