from free range to enclosed run

[rbancroft]

After 2 months of having our chickens free-ranging all day, I want to reclaim my small suburban backyard! Our kids are constantly stepping in chicken poop when they go outside to play. We finished the chicken run today. Any suggestions about transitioning the chickens to the enclosed run after being free-ranging? I would still like to let them free range for a while in the evenings.

 

[Sequin]

I would just put them in there. No biggie. But that is just me. Maybe others would do things in a different way than I would, but going from free range to a run shouldn't be too difficult. Especially if they get a little free roaming time in the evenings. Where do they typically roost at night now? That would be the only difference I could see that might take some time to get used to. Each evening you put them away until the morning. They ought to get it eventually.

 

[LynneP]

...and bring them fresh greens from the yard as much as possible. After all, you'll have a garden again!

 

[cmom]

Just put them into the run. They will get used to it. Give them some treats. The fastest way to a chicken's heart is through it's stomach.

 

[Davaroo]

Quote:
Put up a fence and put them inside their new area. These are chickens, not people. Their emotional state wont be drastically affected, at least not in ways that matter long-term.
Egg laying might slow up. There may be a bit of in-fighting as they adjust. But hey, it is what it is. You are the master of your domain.

Since thay have been accustomed to ranging, I'd give them the most area I can and I would NOT overcrowd them. If that means culling out a few to adjust for the new space, then do it.

Cleanliness will become an issue. That poop your kids are stepping in is a sign the chickens have room enough to "spread the wealth." Once they are confined, that poop will begin to accumulate - along with all the problems that brings with it. Be ready for that.

If you have a dog, add electric fence wire to the containment fence. A chicken running loose is different than one neatly presented to the canine senses behind a fence. Dogs can change too, along with the conditions your chickens are kept in.

Too, learn the Art of Wing Clipping. Formerly unfettered chickens will tend to stay that way. Sir Isaac Newton was right about that.
So you will have to force them to ground in the beginning.

I applaud your effort and good luck.