Hi! my name is Dee,

[Sequel]

Hi Dee! Welcome! You’ve been given several good ideas! I hope you get them squared away soon!

 

[Deadshot]

Hello, Dee, and welcome to BYC! Glad you joined.

How big is the coop in sq ft? They need 4 sq ft per bird.

How well ventilated? They need LOTS of ventilation, generally an area equivalent to 10% of your floor area.

Is there any light coming in it from windows? Chicks don't like walking into something dark at night. If you don't have windows that let in some light, install them... top hinged and backed with 1/2" hardware cloth.

Do the chicks have to navigate a ramp to get in? They need to be trained to use a ramp. When I've raised the chicks, I used a mealworm trail. Now I let the mothers teach their broods.

Hi! thanks for your response. They do know how to use the ramp, although it took awhile. Sq footage is more than sufficient in the run, It's 40 sq ft per bird., but coop is tight. It is however very dark. These guys are about 2 1/2 months old and look like they are almost matured. Looks like I have a project with increasing light too see if it makes a difference.

 

[chrissynemetz]

Hi Dee, welcome to BYC! Have you had any luck getting your chicks to go into the coop at night yet?

 

[Deadshot]

Hello, Dee, and welcome to BYC! Glad you joined.

How big is the coop in sq ft? They need 4 sq ft per bird.

How well ventilated? They need LOTS of ventilation, generally an area equivalent to 10% of your floor area.

Is there any light coming in it from windows? Chicks don't like walking into something dark at night. If you don't have windows that let in some light, install them... top hinged and backed with 1/2" hardware cloth.

Do the chicks have to navigate a ramp to get in? They need to be trained to use a ramp. When I've raised the chicks, I used a mealworm trail. Now I let the mothers teach their broods.

Hi Dee! Welcome! You’ve been given several good ideas! I hope you get them squared away soon!
[/QUOTE]

Boy, some day I will learn how to navigate this site. Ugh! Old and very technically challenged. Actually, my husband and I came home late a few nights ago and they had all gone inside. Usually I herd them in around 8pm. Last night....they again went in by themselves about 8:20. I ordered a low wattage led light to set a timer from 8 to 9pm to light the inside. Havent received that yet. Maybe when they get used to seeing the light pop on at 8 they will know its bedtime. Now I have to figure out if I can train them to shut the coop door behind them. Dont want to be trudging out there in snow or pouring rain. Cant afford one of those automatic door openers and closers. I would worry about it shutting on one of them anyhow. Thanks for your concern! What is your name in case we speak again? or is that a no no? Dee

 

[Deadshot]

Hi Dee, welcome to BYC! Have you had any luck getting your chicks to go into the coop at night yet?

I responded in the wrong area I am sure. Duh! I think it may have been an automated thing from the website. Sorry. Hope you see it eventually. Dee

 

[DobieLover]

Hi Dee! Welcome! You’ve been given several good ideas! I hope you get them squared away soon!

Boy, some day I will learn how to navigate this site. Ugh! Old and very technically challenged. Actually, my husband and I came home late a few nights ago and they had all gone inside. Usually I herd them in around 8pm. Last night....they again went in by themselves about 8:20. I ordered a low wattage led light to set a timer from 8 to 9pm to light the inside. Havent received that yet. Maybe when they get used to seeing the light pop on at 8 they will know its bedtime. Now I have to figure out if I can train them to shut the coop door behind them. Dont want to be trudging out there in snow or pouring rain. Cant afford one of those automatic door openers and closers. I would worry about it shutting on one of them anyhow. Thanks for your concern! What is your name in case we speak again? or is that a no no? Dee
[/QUOTE]
My name is Tonya. You can see it in my signature. If you are using a phone you have to turn it sideways. If you are in a computer it should show under my posts.