How old does everyone suggest for chickens to be before they are allowed to free range and will head back to their coop for the night? I have 14 week olds now in a pen and coop and my ultimate goal is to allow them to free range during the day. And advice would be appreciated! Thanks!!!
They'll need supervision at first, until they get their bearings. Best to start by letting them out just a few hours before dusk. As they show you that they do indeed know to return their coop at night, you can increase the time out by letting them out a little earlier every couple of days until they are out all day. Don't be in a hurry for them to go to roost in the evenings. Their definition of bedtime and yours may be different. Do you have a rooster? Roosters are generally an excellent addition to a free range flock. While all the hens have their fluffy butts in the air eating, the roo is the one watching out for danger.
