Introducing an automatic door to youg'ns

[jstlitlome]

Hi all!

I currently have a pretty mixed flock of 4 adult hens 8 fourteen week Olds and 20 nine week Olds. They are currently all being peaceful with one another. I also have a newish coop ( converted shed). I've been opening one of the big doors during the day and going out after dark to close it. Everyone gets in before dark.

I have installed a new automatic door opener that opens and shuts at dawn and dusk two weeks ago. Of course the dawn opening has been a glorious thing, as I can sleep in on weekends and let them do their thing in rain and snow.

But even after setting the closing for the latest dark many of them get stuck outside. And it's not only the young ones! So now instead of going out each evening to shut the door I'm going out and herding 10 to 20 confused chickens into the coop. That's hard work let me tell you! Lol

There is a heat lamp in there that should encourage them but it's been nice lately. They have a large yard so are on a limited free range.

Ideas?

Thanks

Leslie

 

[ChickenCanoe]

How about a light on a timer near the light sensor that will keep it open till the light goes off.

 

[jstlitlome]

How about a light on a timer near the light sensor that will keep it open till they light goes off.

Oooooo. That's a great idea! Thank you! Yknow, I've been thinking about electric plugs with a remote that I saw at Costco. I may try that! Lol

I'm not trying to be lazy, but I have a disease that causes muscle weakness. Usually afternoons I'm at my best and so is the weather. So it's then that I do feed and just sit and visit with them.

Now I just have to get my plumber husband to install a pressurized heated watering system and I'm good! Lol