How to encourage ventures outside.

[dominic2081]

Hi everyone. I just found this site and have read a number of questions and answers, very helpful. This is our first try with chickens, we have 8 Rhode Island Reds, 6 Black Orpingtons, and 2 Buff Brahmas. I put them in the coop at about 5 weeks with a warming light, they just got too big for the brooder. Just this last weekend I opened the door and have tried to encourage them in to going outside. I pushed all out and they stayed bunched up in one area. They've all gone back in the coop and still won't venture out on their own. Do I just leave them be or should I force them out and close the door? Is it just timidity that will resolve eventually? Any insight would be appreciated.
My wife can't wait to get "free eggs", but the cost of this project, new shed etc. will preclude free eggs for about 10 years. They are fun to watch though. Thanks.

 

[gryeyes]

They're pretty young, still, and new environments scare 'em. I'd leave 'em be - just open the door for them as if they WILL come out, and close it again at night (making sure they have all retired for the evening, first).

You can also toss some treats outside in the run area, which will eventually lure them outside. Once ONE chick ventures out and nothing bad happens, the others will get brave and try it, too.

 

[scrambledmess]

I just shoved mine out once or twice a day. I didn't force them to stay out, but I did make the decision for them on the first attempt each day. It only took a few days and they were going out on their own.

 

[Backyard Hencam]

This is good advice

They're pretty young, still, and new environments scare 'em. I'd leave 'em be - just open the door for them as if they WILL come out, and close it again at night (making sure they have all retired for the evening, first).

You can also toss some treats outside in the run area, which will eventually lure them outside. Once ONE chick ventures out and nothing bad happens, the others will get brave and try it, too.

Chicks this age should be kept at about 70 degrees. They need to be able to get back to the light to warm up just as their mother would warm them up on a cold day. They are still young to be outside. I'd want to be sure they could find their way back in easily.

Good luck!

 

[Ridgerunner]

What is the big benefit to them going outside immediately? Chickens hate change. Just leave the pop door open and they will eventually find their way outside. It won't hurt them to wait until they build up the courage to vernture out on their own. It may happen quickly or it may take a few days, but it will happen.

 

[catdaddy66]

Mine did the same thing...sat and looked out the door the first time I opened it. The next time I put some scratch and BOSS out in front of the door and 3-5 came out but only 5' from the coop. I have now got all out of the coop on my 4th and 5th tries. Keep at it and use food and treats to entice them. Once a few start the rest follow.