Dusk to dawn light outside of coop??

[Holster1]

I'm building a new coop. I live on 10 acres out of town. Pretty dark out here in the country. Would it be a bad idea to put a street light out side if the coup to light up the area? Any problems by doing that. Not sure if the chickens prefer total darkness or not. Coop will have Windows, so some light would get in from outside light.

 

[ChickenCanoe]

It may help discourage some predators. It will also help you walk around at night without a flashlight.
A dark period is best for all animals. If you position the light high so the light doesn't enter the window significantly it shouldn't be a problem.
My chickens aren't pets so the only time I can handle them is to pluck them off the roost at night. If the coop is too light inside, they could see you coming and negate that advantage.

 

[Folly's place]

I really dislike the light pollution from such lights; one of the advantages of living in the boonies is seeing the night sky. How about a motion detector light? Or spotlight on a switch? Or a good flashlight? Serious predators will learn that the spotlight is harmless, and your roosters may be awake enough to crow all night too. Mary

 

[Sand blister]

I have a dusk to dawn light. I enjoy the fact that I can see you coop at any point and time. I have a very small bulb in there. 4 watt LED. Works well, not to bright. No issues.

 

[Holster1]

I think I'll start with a motion detector light. I'm building coop on concrete to help with security. Run will be wrapped in hardware cloth with concrete footing. Metal roofing on coop and run. Going try and build it very secure. Hopefully if it is built well, it should not matter whether it's dark or light.

I have a very good flash light that can light up predators as well.

 

[aart]

I too live out in the boonies and love that there are no street lights and no neighbors near enough with yard lights to pollute my dark.
I have a high powered flashlight in case of trouble and use a headlight to go out to the coop if needed.
Lights really aren't going to deter predators once they get used to them....build your coop tight against predators is the best bet.

 

[RonP]

Neighbors were kidding me about this just the other day.

I have no less than 15 lights surrounding my house, coop, and property...

All on motion sensors, all LEDs. Most only stay lit for 3 minutes without motion.

I can light up my entire property, as do the deer, raccoons, opossums, neighborhood cats, fox, occasional skunks, ... and my dog.

Doesn't do a thing to scare off predators, except light the way for the dog...so he could try and make a new friend...

 

[aart]

Neighbors were kidding me about this just the other day.

I have no less than 15 lights surrounding my house, coop, and property...

All on motion sensors, all LEDs. Most only stay lit for 3 minutes without motion.

I can light up my entire property, as do the deer, raccoons, opossums, neighborhood cats, fox, occasional skunks, ... and my dog.

Doesn't do a thing to scare off predators, except light the way for the dog...so he could try and make a new friend...

Kidding... or trying to send a subtle hint about how annoying it is?

 

[RonP]

Kidding... or trying to send a subtle hint about how annoying it is?

Fortunately, no one could see my lights from their properties, too many trees, and hundreds of feet away.

As they were visiting, the lights lit their way to the door. They actually had no idea and were intrigued.

Kidding me in that they knew how little it offered in predator protection, we all have the same issues.

Had to convince them that the only reason I did this was because I could, and it is kinda cool...at least I think so...

 

[aart]

Quote: Well, OK, (SHM) what ever 'turns' you on. hahahaha