Coop isn't ready, are the chicks?

[Milliemay]

I have 3 week old chicks that are trying to "fly" the coop/brooder which is a big water tank. I have constructed a hoop coop for my meaties that I am getting next week, and of course the layers coop isn't started except for the concrete pad. (My husband thinks planting corn is more important)

Anyhow, at what age can I put the chicks out? I was thinking about rigging up a temporary shelter out of plywood to put them in the hoop coop for a couple of weeks. Our nights are still chilly so I would need a heat lamp still. When is the best age to move them and when can they be without a heat lamp?

Oh, and the hoop coop is made out of cattle panels covered in chicken wire, covered with a tarp, with a hot wire along the bottom. Sorry for the rambling, this is all so new!

Professional advice needed, thanks in advance.

 

[RendonRoo]

Sounds like you have a good plan. As far as the heat lamp goes i would suggest having one until they are about six weeks old or the temps stay above 60 at night. Also be sure that they can get away from the heat lamp if they get too warm. Good Luck and welcome to BYC and chickens.