Chickens staying out all night

[CityChicken1984]

I have 3 rhode island reds who are all 21 weeks old. They have never missed getting into thw coop before the automatic door shuts. But the last 4 nights they all get close together on the perch in the run and dont even attempt to go in the coop...is there a reason they arent going in now???

 

[HollowOfWisps]

How big is your coop? Is it just the three chickens? Does it have enough ventilation?

 

[TooCheep]

Possible that there are mites or equivalent in the coop. I'd give it a good cleaning and spray with permethrin coop spray (allow to ventilate well before evening).

 

[rosemarythyme]

I'd check for mites but realistically assessing the space would be a good idea too. Photos would be great if you need help with that. For 3 birds you're wanting at minimum around 3 sq ft of ventilation open 24/7, some natural light at dusk, 3' linear of roost, 12 sq ft of floor space.

 

[saysfaa]

How high is the perch in the run compared to the coop? As they mature, they start caring more about roosting as high as possible. And/or the other things people said could be the reason or parts of the reason.

 

[1motorpsycho]

Possible that there are mites or equivalent in the coop. I'd give it a good cleaning and spray with permethrin coop spray (allow to ventilate well before evening).

Excellent! I did have this problem. I shouldn't now but will certainly do the tape test tomorrow.