I would say it depends on how old your chicks are, how feathered they are, and the weather where you live. I waited until mine were about 6 weeks, fully feathered and stuck them out there. The only reason I did that is because the weather her has been kind of weird with cool nights and hot days. I kept mine locked in the actual coop for about a week, just placed them in there one day and kept them shut in. After a week I opened the pop door to let them into their run and every night at 8 I go out to close the door and lock them in for good for the night, so far I have had no issues with having to chase chickens in. I have heard however that you can just keep them locked in the coop for as few as 3 days.
Hello there and welcome to BYC! I like to give them field trips out to the coop at 2 weeks of age, as long as it is not a cold day. Make the visits short at first and increase the time outside as they age. You can get them out in the yard too, but keep a very close eye on them at all times. They can escape and disappear fast. I like to use an enclosure when I get them outside. The more access they have to the coop, the easier it will be to go out there for good with the least amount of stress. If they are familiar, they will adjust quick to the coop. When you do take them out for good, keep them in the coop for a couple days, not letting them outside. This will help them know where home is and will always return to the coop at night to roost. Enjoy your flock and welcome to ours!
In their fifth week of life, take them outside during the day and let them play outside in an enclosure (under supervision.) Then, at 6 weeks, put them in their coop if the night will be above 50 degrees F. If it is under 50 degrees, bring them inside to sleep in a temperate brooder.
Welcome to BYC! Please make yourself at home and we are here to help. Around 10 weeks is when it's best to move the chicks out. At the earliest wait until they are fully feathered. But they can be outside for most of the day before they actually move outside. Just make sure they are safe and secure. Just put them in the coop at night. They'll probably act scared and confused at first but the'll get used to it very soon. Make sure it's comfy, cozy, secure and draft free. Good luck and best wishes!
Welcome to BYC! Glad you decided to join our flock. You've received some good advice from the other members. Please feel free to ask if you have any more questions. We are here to help in any way we can. What kind of chicks do you have?
