Heat lamp vs Heating Pad

[Norma Swatsenberg]

Thanks for that info and link. Worth considering.

Tractor supply has the same cozy coop heaters for $35.00. I hope it's ok that I relayed that info.

 

[Vicker]

I use pine shavings, but they don't nest in it at night. They stay on their roost bars. The wind is blocked off with plenty of ventilation still maintained. I have never had a chicken in molt during the winter, so I can see your concern. Frankly, I'd put a sweater on it before I added heat, though. And since juveniles feather out more quickly when you don't keep them too warm, I wonder if she'll grow her feathers back more quickly without a heat source.

 

[SueT]

Chickens have down jackets, like the wild birds. Their legs have special circulation to prevent freezing. Our winters here can get down to 0º F, and our chickens do fine every year, even with long stretches of very cold weather. (As do the wild birds who don't even have a coop. ) What we consider too cold for us is definitely not too cold for them. They'll be fine w no heat, really!

 

[Judy Todd]

With winter coming, this weekend we dusted off the heat lamp and checked the wiring to make sure it was ready to go when chilly nights arrive here in the Bay Area of California. Now I know it cannot possibly compare to the 'real' winter many chicken lovers on this forum have, that being said, what with Chelsy deciding to go into full molting she is gonna get chilly in the house with her bff without some heat source. Every winter I worry about the safety re the combination of straw and heat lamp even though the lamp is a good 4+ feet over the straw bedding I still get worried. Is a heating pad a better idea? and if so, what about the possibility of scratching and pecking at the pad? Or do you think the heat lamp is fine? I have two roosting bars so they can either get close to the lamp or scootch away from it.

I agree with others, no need for heat in the bay area. I am in the PNW and the only time I use heat is under the water if it starts to get below 25 or so inside the coop. Hens stay warm and happy.

 

[YvonneBack]

No heat source need. If you are concern, give them high protein feed or add hot chili pepper to their food and water late in the afternoon. That will keep them warm enough.

High protein feed yes but I'd forgotten about the chili pepper. Thanks.

 

[Judy Todd]

I am so sorry for losing Toby. I completely understand how you are feeling. I'm tearing up just typing this... but I think of this saying often: Every new dog who comes into my life gifts me with a piece of their heart. If I live long enough all the components of my heart will be a dog, and I will become as generous and loving as they are.

OMG, I love that, I teared up reading it. I have lost two old dogs in the last year, so difficult. Now have a crazy 1 year old lab, Alice who I could strangle and kiss all in the same 15minutes; thank you for a lovely saying.

 

[YvonneBack]

Is there some reason there are no reply links at the bottom of several of the postings re heat lamps vs heating pads received in the last several hours?
I try to be polite and respectful in answering everyone who took the time to advise or recommend things to me. That being said, to all who have given me their own personal opinions on my initial quandry I am very thankful for your time and your expertise given. You all have given me much to muse upon and I am very appreciative. Thank you very much.

 

[JBTD]

With winter coming, this weekend we dusted off the heat lamp and checked the wiring to make sure it was ready to go when chilly nights arrive here in the Bay Area of California. Now I know it cannot possibly compare to the 'real' winter many chicken lovers on this forum have, that being said, what with Chelsy deciding to go into full molting she is gonna get chilly in the house with her bff without some heat source. Every winter I worry about the safety re the combination of straw and heat lamp even though the lamp is a good 4+ feet over the straw bedding I still get worried. Is a heating pad a better idea? and if so, what about the possibility of scratching and pecking at the pad? Or do you think the heat lamp is fine? I have two roosting bars so they can either get close to the lamp or scootch away from it.

I agree that it is not necessary to provide heat in your location. However, when heat is needed, such as with young chicks, I have found the Brinsea heat plate very helpful and I feel much safer with it than I did with a heat lamp.

 

[YvonneBack]

I agree that it is not necessary to provide heat in your location. However, when heat is needed, such as with young chicks, I have found the Brinsea heat plate very helpful and I feel much safer with it than I did with a heat lamp.

Thank you, I will check that out.

 

[JBTD]

Thank you, I will check that out.

I just looked up the cozy coop that was previously posted. I may check it out the next time I get chicks.