hardening off the chicks for winter

[gagesgramps]

we have 15 buff orps that are 5 weeks old now, they have been in the coop since day 1. we used a kids swimming pool as the brooder up until a week and a half ago. i've been leaving the heat lamp off till i get home from work (about 11 p.m.) and back off when i get up. the lamp is on a dimmer switch so ive been trying to keep it around 50 - 60 degrees f. when i get home they are all huddled together in a corner till the lamp comes on then they're under that on a starter roost. the roost is longer than the range of heat from the lamp and the chicks that don't fit on the roost in the heat range just sleep on the floor in the heat range. just wondering when i can eliminate the heat lamp? they have feathered out quite nicely. by the way we live in wisconsin it can get pretty chilly here.
thanks again, gages gramps

 

[Bear Foot Farm]

If they are FULLY feathered, you should be able to do away with the heat completely, as long as the coop is dry and draft free