Chicks in the Fall

[yogifink]

This is our first go around with rasing chicks this time of year. With it being much colder at night, currently in the 40-50 range, at what point is it safe to put them outside? Is it recomended to provided them with a heat source in their grow out coop?

Our batch is currently off of the lamp and are doing fine with inside temperatures in the low 70's, I am concerned with the temperature swing. Previously we have hatched and rasied them in the summer so we could put them out after a 2 weeks.

Currently at 5 weeks and the are quickly out growing the brooder.

 

[write2caroline]

When they feather out and are a little older 5 weeks or so. They will have those fluffy under feathers under the sleek outer feathers. The under feathers are like fine downe and fluff up creating warm air pockets and keeping them toasty warm. Just be sure there are not drafts and good ventilation.
Caroline