Chicks outside in grow out pen---Temp and advice?

[Barbedwirecat]

I just fixed up my grow out pen for the new season::




It's actually been reinforced for predators this year (photo from last year)

Question is---My chicks are FULLY feathered at 7 weeks old. They are HUGE (and I mean twice the size I am used to at this age) I don't know if the suppliments boosted them or what but they are almost 1/2 the size of my chickens now. (They are also Naked Necks--might have something to do with it)

They have been off supplimental heat for 2 weeks in my spare bathroom with the window open.

Temps here this week are lows of 52 at night and highs of 82.

Would anyone say NO don't put them out? I did make sure they have a big rubbermaid covered nest box. Otherwise I'll run them back in, just wondering what others think...


There are 24 chicks and they were outgrowing my medium bathroom---I can't even imagine trying to get them all in the brooder IN the coop.

 

[Barbedwirecat]

They are all snuggled together but NOT under the tarp... I'm guessing they will be OK?

 

[NJchixs]

I think they will be fine. You've gradually been building them up to it so it shouldn't be a shock. I'm doing almost the same thing with my guys.