First time Chicken/ Australorp Mom

[Abigail2]

Hello!
I am a first time chicken mom! I have 6 Australorp chickens, hatched on June 22nd. This makes them about 11 weeks old. My boyfriend has been building the coop and run at his leisure, so it is not yet finished... We live in North East Ohio, and my concern is that the weather is now becoming quite chilly overnight. When would be the proper time to introduce the chickens into their coop for good? We are going to let them self-regulate, and will not be supplying a heat source in the coop. They have not yet been outside, aside from some afternoon playtime on the warmer days. Last night the temperature was a low of 54 degrees, and it will be getting colder from here on out... Do they need to be introduced to the coop ASAP? What are the temperature regulations for Australorps? I know they are a cold-hardy breed, but I don't not want them to suffer, or freeze... PLEASE advise! Thank you for your help!

 

[Mutt Farm]

Hi! Welcome!

At 11 weeks, there is no huge hurry, but you are wise to be concerned about allowing them to slowly acclimate. LOL at the building timeline. I have Hubby labor and it is definitely not a fast pace!

You didn't mention how far from finished the coop/run are or if you are still using a heat source. I'd turn off all heat and move the brooder to a draft free unheated area like a garage until you can get the coop finished up. They can huddle up for warmth. Once they move in, If you are worried, possibly you could provide a temp heat source in a corner for the first week or so in case they need it. Just for peace of mind. For more suggestions, you could copy this post and start a new thread in https://www.backyardchickens.com/f/2/managing-your-flock
Folks that are expert at certain stuff check certain threads more often.
Also, please drop by New Member Introductions with this post so folks can give you a proper welcome!
https://www.backyardchickens.com/newsearch?search=new+member+introductions
Best of luck to you!

 

[Abigail2]

Thank you for your response!

My boyfriend says that perfection cannot be rushed. HaHa. I took the heat source away once the chicks (pullets? hens?) had feathered out and weren't huddling as much. I'd say about 6-7 weeks of age. The coop and run are about 90% finished at this point. I just didn't know if they needed to be moved in ASAP because of the temperature drop. (Also I want to have a reason to give the boyfriend a kick in the rear to get it finished!) I filled out a "New Member Introduction" thread! Thank you! I will also ask on the thread you suggested about my temperature concerns. Thank you again for your help! Best wishes!