I am not 'Managing my Flock' very well today

[rolffamily]

There is a good old Wisconsin storm going on and I have 4 GLW hunkered down under a big spruce tree because they won't cross the snow to get to their coop.

I tried a path of straw, and the 5th one followed me (at least I have one smart one) but I made the mistake of trying to shoo the rest with a broom so now they are waaay under the tree and won't budge. And now my straw path is slowingly getting covered up.

Does this mean I'll be crawling under there at dusk when the storm is truly supposed to be raging to pull them out when they are sleeping? Any ideas? I don't want to leave them out overnight.

 

[Arcnadius]

Got any treats? You could try bribing them forward.

 

[rolffamily]

I tried. They are pretty full of bread now.

 

[True Grit]

I sometimes put my dog on a leash and herd them around with her but stay pretty far away so they don't panic. They may think they're safe under the tree though...

 

[WoodlandWoman]

I'd just go under there and get them now, while it's still light. I really doubt they're going to come out later. They've got a pretty cozy spot under that tree. Later, the weather will be worse and it will be dark, too. I'd rather just get it done now, if it was me. Then go enjoy a hot beverage in a comfortable chair and think about spring...

 

[brandislee]

Not really related to the chicken part, but this storm sucks, huh! I was so hopeful after the warm weather we've had the past few weeks, this snow is really bummin' me out!

 

[Arcnadius]

You guys must be further south because we're just now getting the snow. Stay home and stay safe!

 

[rolffamily]

My hubby came in from his shop and was kind enough to crawl under and shoo them out. Then the both of us herded them to the coop.

We're in Manitowoc county and it's been snowing for an hour now. No wind yet, so it's almost pleasant out.

Thanks for all your suggestions

 

[centrarchid]

With heavy snow events, my birds set tight in cover until just before dark. At roosting time they make their way across snow. I watch from window to confirm thay are getting to roost. Let them do it one their own. Do not bother them until they commit to roost where they are not supposed to.