Droopy Tails While Roosting?

[Kadjain]

 

[CheekyMare]

Quote:
What bedding are you using on the floor of your coop? Good idea with using a bus as a chicken house.

Thanks WTM

I'm just using the same pine shavings as we use for the horses. It's free as long as we pick it up so we go every couple weeks with the 4 horse and fill 'er up!

 

[Ole rooster]

I just assumed the tail down was the final balance manuver. So I was kinda right. It just means they are locked on the perch. I would think it meant they were in more of a musle relaxed state along with being locked on, of course. I guess it's all right.

 

[JodyJo]

Quote:
I agree, and as I said, I was just trying it out. I had recently wired it and just wanted to make sure it does work, and is the appropriate wattage (so it is not too warm) in the event of very cold weather later in the winter. I didn't have it on for more than a few minutes, but thank you for your concern and input!

I meant nothing by it, I apologize if it read rudely to you.
My girls have already been down to -29* and did great without added heat, I am wondering what you consider cold? Because chickens have a completely different idea of cold!
They amaze me...again apologies if I over spoke!

 

[Ole rooster]

I can tell you my idea of cold. Anything below 45 degrees. And that's pushing it. I like it hot.

 

[WalkingTreatMachine]

Quote:
I agree, and as I said, I was just trying it out. I had recently wired it and just wanted to make sure it does work, and is the appropriate wattage (so it is not too warm) in the event of very cold weather later in the winter. I didn't have it on for more than a few minutes, but thank you for your concern and input!

I meant nothing by it, I apologize if it read rudely to you.
My girls have already been down to -29* and did great without added heat, I am wondering what you consider cold? Because chickens have a completely different idea of cold!
They amaze me...again apologies if I over spoke!

I'm not offended at all- it's always good to hear other peoples' opinions, even if we don't agree. This is my first winter with chickens, and I am finding that no matter how much information we gather on any topic, practices range all along the spectrum from neglect to pampering. My personal opinion is that chickens can withstand quite low temps (I chose breeds especially suited to the cold), and I don't want them to become accustomed to a toasty coop lest they get a shock when the power goes out for weeks in an ice storm. Ok, if they were used to the warmth, I'd probably take them with me indoors by the fire ;-) BUT, what I'm saying is that I don't want them to become less hardy. STILL, Although they can withstand super cold temps, I'm a softie and don't want them to suffer. SO, since my coop is not insulated, I am planning on using the heat lamp when temps are expected to stay below 32* for more than a couple of hours in the wee morning. I haven't had to use it yet.