Coop Update/Chicken Guard Question

[qopt]

I have the standard... I went "cheapo." I use a timer as I also installed my motor inside the coop, and don't trust winter gloom to not accidentally close the door early.

The birds learn that the sound of the motor running means door is going to open, so they all come flying down off the roost when they hear it in the morning. At night, I deliberately set the close time after it's dark, so they're all sure to be inside.

Only hiccup was one morning it didn't open - no reason why. So it's always a good idea to check that the door opened and closed properly, when you're able to.

Difference in models has to do with motor strength and various options, I think their site has a chart that shows all the exact differences in models.

I live in Western Washington, this is the first week basically since summer ended that we haven't had thick over cast. I forgot to ask how good the light sensors are on the door. Every other day here is practically always gray/cloudy up until summer.

 

[rosemarythyme]

I live in Western Washington, this is the first week basically since summer ended that we haven't had thick over cast. I forgot to ask how good the light sensors are on the door. Every other day here is practically always gray/cloudy up until summer.

The lux sensors are supposed to be pretty good but my coop is in a spot that gets a lot of afternoon shade, so that + winter gloom almost guarantees it'll close early on some days. I'd rather have full control over it.