Chicks (17 weeks) sleeping in run, not coop

[pigcoon]

I searched this topic and saw similar questions but want to clarify.

My pullets were introduced slowly to two older hens. At this point they are getting along just fine (6 pullets-2 Buff Orpingtons, 4 Wyandottes; the older hens are Barred Rocks and they are about 5 yrs old).

They all have an inner coop and an outer run. They do not free range due to predators but are in the 12 X 12 run during the day. At night the older hens have always gone into the coop. In th past, with integrating new hens, everyone has just figured out how to go into the coop at night.

This new batch of 6 pullets--they took a fancy to roosting on a ladder/branch/roost in the outer run at night (they are still protected). In the winter they will want to go into the inner coop for warmth. Since they are getting along ok with the old hens and there is plenty of room in the inner coop, I don't understand why they aren't following the older hens in there at night> Question is should I remove their ladder/branch roost? Force them in there at night? Just let them work it out and when they get cold enough they will go in there?

 

[Kiki]

What is the exact size of the coop and how long/many feet is the roost bar?

 

[pigcoon]

The coop is about six by six. There are two roosting bars, each six feet long, one high, one low. The chicks (almost 22 weeks) rarely go in the coop at all. They stay out in the run which is attached. The laying boxes are in there so they're going to have to figure out where they are. Should I lock them in there a few nights to encourage?

 

[snow5164]

Ok so 6x6 and how many hens ??

6 pullets
4-Wyandotte's
2- buffs

?- bared rocks

That’s a crowded coop , no wonder they don’t go inside . Coop is 6x6? So 36 square feet /4 sq feet per bird = 9 birds

I was going to look at where you’re from but you’re talking winter so I gets cold ,in my opinion you need to do what I just did to restore peace and get rid of some birds

 

[Kiki]

Triple check the coop for mites tonight when it is dark...with a flash light.
They may be avoiding it because of bugs.

 

[pigcoon]

It's 8 birds, 6 pullets and 2 old girls. The pullets have never gone in. Initially it was because the old girls were bossing them around, but now there is peace and they still aren't going. I've had this many girls in there before when the older flock was younger if that makes sense. Like I said they all get along now, so there is no lack of peace.

 

[chickens really]

You need to Coop train them. Meaning lock them in each night before dark.

 

[pigcoon]

That's what I was wondering. I have had chickens for 10 years and have never had to do anything like that we with pullets in the past! Everyone has always just followed the routine of the established flock.

 

[aart]

How long ago did you add the new birds?

 

[pigcoon]

The new birds were added in July when they were 10 weeks or so.