How early can the chicks be moved to a coop and pen?

[DottieMarie]

I've been out of town so I'm just now getting a chance to read everyone's feed back. Thanks to all, I have some good information now. Yes, MI is still cool at night, tonight it's supposed to be 41 degrees (burr). We get our birds next Monday (I can't wait!!!) so I think I'll keep them inside for the first few weeks. Depending on the temps at that time, I may try making the hover.....looks interesting and pretty easy to make. I'll send pics if I go that route.

Started the coop yesterday so we now have a dance floor in our yard, lol.

 

[lovemychicks9]

Mine have always lived in the coop from day one. We live in Arkansas though and the temps are a big consideration. I raised mine in a chik-n-hutch with a heat lamp the first 3 weeks and then they were moved out onto the floor with the heat lamp in the corner of the coop and they did just fine. I just watched the temp in the coop all the time. I lived in Michigan all my life and I know how the night temps can be and how quickly the weather can change too but I think if you continue to offer the heat lamp in a corner where they can huddle or get away from it if they get warm they shoud be fine. Is your coop predator proof and free of drafts for them? If it is I think they will like it and have fun stretching their legs and wings. Good luck! Trudy