Do I need to heat the coop during the winter?

[RonP]

Old topic I know...but I put a heated brick in the coop tonight wrapped in newspaper then a towel. It will be a wind chill of -1 tonight. will see how it goes!

Curious as to why you think what you did was needed.

 

[Nofowlplay]

The temperatures dropped very suddenly over a 2 day period. The girls had no time to adjust.

 

[RonP]

Do they have a well ventilated, draft free coop?
Wind chill temps are not ambient temps and birds will stay out of the wind when necessary.

Are they cold hardy breeds?
Most cold hardy breeds are comfortable till around -20F, believe it or not.

Sudden changes are no different than some areas that have 30 or more degree swings, day to night.

The birds will always have their insulation (feathers) on.

There are circumstances where additional heat can be desirable, thats why I was curious.

 

[Nofowlplay]

Someone had told me a local hen didn't make it last winter so I was worried.
I have 1 of each
Buff Orp
Plymouth Barred Rock
Speckled Sussex
Ameraucana

Are they cold hardy? I don't know. The Sussex and BR have larger combs.
Appreciate your input!
My Sussex girl is an outdoor rooster. I have been locking her in with the other 3 at night this past week.
Coop is very well ventilated. Seems to be draft free. Has straw bales stacked on the sides and a window in the front with hardware cloth. Also vent towards the roof and some ventilation on one side. I have 2 quilts on the roof. Roof of pen in which the coop is built has a plexi glass roof that conducts heat.

 

[RonP]

Assuming your birds are in good health, I still see no need for the additional heat.

Humidity needs to be kept low to avoid frostbite.

Adequate ventilation keeps humidity in check.

Seems you have it covered.

 

[chick'n'weave]

how did it go?

 

[Nofowlplay]

how did it go?

Very well.....the girls are happy, clucking and frostbite free!