If chickens are "shivering", is it time to add a heat source?

[wannahavehens]

Hi Tracy,
I too have been carrying water a few times a day to replace the frozen. I did get the heater base and it's working perfectly. I had one of those plastic heater/waterer, but i didn't have much luck with it. The water leaked out too much. It seemed to have to be exactly level and not moved at all. I'm thinking about trying one of those solar water bowls for outside. Have you seen those?
https://stores.myregisteredsite.com/user1249836/mm5/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Product_Code=TC
Linda

 

[Fowl Feathered]

If your chickens are of a larger breed, then do not use a heater. Bantam breeds and less sturdy breeds such as silkies might need attention but chickens are able to withstand cold - a heat source is not a good idea because they become dependent on it and if it fails for some reason, then they will not be adapted to the cold and can get sick.
The important things during the cold is a draft free coop - we achieve this by making sure the coop is insulated and the door/windows are tight - we have covered the window with a wooden door (acts like a storm window) that not only prevents drafts but keeps the roosters quiet in the morning because it is dark! We are amazed to find it cozy in there during the cold in the milder winter.
When it gets below zero, we use an outdoor spotlight bulb to extend the daylight and it does provide a tiny bit of heat but not much. We have found our chickens with icicles on their feet and their bodies are warm to the touch. By that time, you would think the chickens will have grown their feathers.
The frozen water is best addressed with a heater fit for that purpose.
Hope this helps.