Chickens won't go in coop

[BBSnavely]

We have 5 chickens, straight run. 3 Black Australorps and 2 Lavender Orpingtons. 2 of my Australorps will not go in the coop each night.

They are all new to the coop, with a step "ladder" to get to the door, which is an Omlet automatic Chicken door, set to close at the same time each night.

From the top picture, you can see they all know how to use the step ladder, so I know that's not the problem. The other 3 chickens put themselves away each night, but the other 2 Australorps stay out each night. I have to physically go out every night and put them away.

I have a guess what might be happening, but I want to get your opinion first.

Separate question, how do I encourage them to roost each night?

Thanks in advance.

 

[rosemarythyme]

How well lit and well ventilated is the coop? If it's too dark or stuffy inside they may be reluctant to go any further than the door.

As far as roosting, since there's no adults to show them what to do, you'll have to wait for them to figure it out for themselves, or show them by picking them up and placing them on the roost each night until they get the idea.

 

[aart]

A battery operated puck light can hlep until you get windows in.
Turn in on an hour before roost time, then turn if off when you lock up after dark.


Needs some windows!

The coop is finished!! Let me know what you think!!View attachment 2121231

 

[Sandbyter]

I read that chickens cannot see in the dark like we can. So if it is too dark in the coop, they may not see the roost.
My coop is facing north, so it's get's dark inside faster than in the run. But I also just installed the Omlet auto door, but I also got the light. The light comes on about 5 minutes before the door closes and is a great signal for the girls.
My door is set on auto dusk and dawn. I set-up my chair outside the run for the first 3 nights. They learned very quickly to go in on time and only on the first night did one decide to come back out again.
Now, after a week, I find they go in about 15' - 20' before the door closes.