Getting Ready for Coop...

[High Mountain Chic]

I have 6 eight week old EEs that are unfortunately still in the house... I have been hoping to get them out side the last couple of weeks but we had one heck of a blizzard in the Colorado Rockies ( 3 feet of snow and cold cold temps)! Well the storm has moved on and the sun is out and temps are up (for how long is anyone's guess) What is the best way to introduce these chicks to their coop and the outdoors in general. Do i start by putting them in the run during the day and bring them in at night? Also should I start to leave their light off? They are full feathered and the inside temperature of our home is about 60 degrees. They will need to get used to slightly cooler temps if I am to ever get them outside! Any advice is always welcome! THanks again!

 

[BigSkyChickens]

Hi There,
I've read that you need to lock them inside the coop for a least a day, that way, they remember where home is......and they will go back inside every night. Mine are getting ready to go outside too. They are still in the house, but Saturday night was the first night without the brooder lamp. I'll probably keep them inside the coop for a few days before I let them out in the run. Enjoy your chickens!

 

[gritsar]

While they are still in the house, start turning their light off now. Eight week old chicks don't need it. When you do feel comfortable moving them to the coop leave them locked in the coop at least for a few days. After that and on nice days you can open the door to their run and let them explore.
Make sure your coop is draft free and there is plenty of bedding to snuggle in.