Hens dont roost

[Okiebirds]

My have 7 buff orpingtons that are 4 1/2 months old. My wife's uncle gave them to us about 8 days ago, after we finished our coop. The thing i dont know about is they will not use the roost at night. They plie up in one corner of the coop. They would use the nest boxes if I would let them. I have blocked off the boxes because it seemed like a bad habit to get started. Uncle has only one that uses a roost at night. The rest of his does the same thing. We were thinking they may still be a little younig. Is this normal? Will they grow to use the roots? Thanks

 

[pontoosuc]

hello, and welcome to BYC!!!

you will learn so much about your chickens in these forums.

your chickens will learn how to roost. they are young and piling up in a corner is warm,
cozy and secure for the moment.

so much has gone on in their short lives. new home, new people, maybe new food and treats.
give them a bit of time.

and

 

[Desert Rooster]

how high are the roosts???/ and

by the way

 

[Okiebirds]

Thanks for the fast reply. Ive been looking around here for a fews weeks now and theres a ton of info.

 

[MissJenny]

Hi -- what Pontoosuc said -- I just chimed in to say

There is a boatload of information here -- I hope you find it helpful.

Jenny

 

[Okiebirds]

The roosts in my coop r 22" off the floor. uncle's about the same. 3 or 4 of them will jump up there during the day, but not at night.

 

[motoclown]

My baby chicks are almost two weeks old and they have been trying to roost.
Some roost for a little while, while other are just checking out their balance and trying to fly.

Not sure about your birds, I thought roosting was an natural instinct.
Is the roost accessible and inviting?

 

[Desert Rooster]

try putting them on the roosts at night for about 1 week, they should get the hang of it by then

 

[paddock36]

My Black Astralorps did the exact same thing for a long time. I think it was because that is what they were used to doing when they were chicks, but they eventually learned to use the roosts by themselves.

 

[tinychicky]

you can try putting them on the roosts at night, if you're worried, they'll figure it out eventually! also,