Crowding on one end of roost

[mdquilts]

Our chickens have been in their new coop for a few weeks now and often do a pig pile on one end of the roost. I don’t think they do it all night since there is poop on other parts of the poop board. Is this normal? Should I care?

 

[Roo5]

I guess it’s normal,they probably get warm and move during the night,Ive had young birds do this.Especially when added to the flock,they feel safer stuck together.

 

[Mybackyardpeepers]

I have 4 preadult chickens and 3 juveniles, there is 2 roosts in my coop presently. All 7 sleep on one roost squished together, completely normal.

 

[CityslickerHomestead]

Mine are nine weeks old and jump in a dog pile every night. The coop is outside and nighttime temps are now ranging from mid 30s to mid 40s.

 

[Lizzy733]

They're all good friends; in the dark they can't really see so there's a bit of emotional comfort knowing your broodmates are right there with you. You may see them start to get a bit pushy when they come into lay though. At least it makes spot cleaning for poop that much easier. Mine only use about a fifth of their roost space.

 

[mdquilts]

Thank you for the responses. Now I’m curious and will check to see if it’s always the same one at the odd bottom spot or maybe it’s the coveted spot. Chickens are so funny!

 

[GoatDragonFarms]

What goofballs.
Ours have decided to live in a small coop, and make a blanket out of each other.
Wish we could be this comfortable!

 

[BigBlueHen53]

My hens are between two and five years old and they still do it. There is a window that runs along the middle third of the roost and they seem to snuggle along the ends of the roost regardless of whether it is open or closed, and regardless of the season or temperature or humidity. Of course when it is very cold they will huddle more but even in warm weather that spot next to the wall in the corner is everyone's favorite spot. Goofballs!

 

[aart]

Is this normal? Should I care?

Yes and No.