Is subzero metal an issue for chicken feet?

[CluckingLucky]

As winter is approaching, I’m going over different weather conditions and how I’m going to combat them in my new coop and run.

My run is 20x30 currently and composed of metal tubing for the frame with chicken wire wrapped and HWC around it.

There are a couple of places where the meta tubing is accessible to the chickens, and they’ll occasionally sit there. My concern is in the winter that metal is likely going to be well below freezing. Will the skin on their feet freeze to it, similar to our skin?

I picked up some plastic tubing that I can put over the metal tubing, just not sure if it’s necessary…

 

[tlcmurphy]

Maybe a pool noodle (split lengthwise)? We’re in GA so not an issue for us.

 

[nuthatched]

Maybe wrap it with horse leg tape, (vet wrap), metal is far superior to plastic for support, I wouldn't replace it.

 

[BarnyardChaos]

They probably won't like sitting on the frozen metal and will avoid it, but I agree with you - prevention is a better cure than treating frostbite. I'd cover the accessible horizontal metal tubing with something - plastic, or foam pipe insulation, even just duct tape.

 

[CluckingLucky]

Maybe wrap it with horse leg tape, (vet wrap), metal is far superior to plastic for support, I wouldn't replace it.

Thanks, but I wasn’t going to replace the metal, just cover it with some plastic 1.5” hose.

 

[coach723]

That should work. In some conditions, their feet could possibly get frozen to the metal, and frostbite would definitely be a risk. I would cover it with something that will prevent either of those from happening.

 

[21hens-incharge]

I would avoid foam as they will peck at it and eat it.

 

[tlcmurphy]

I would avoid foam as they will peck at it and eat it.

Excellent point, please ignore my pool noodle suggestion!!

 

[aart]

Will the skin on their feet freeze to it, similar to our skin?

Immediately pictured the tongue on a flagpole scenario

Chickens/birds have specialized circulation in their feet that helps protect them,
but better to be more safe than sorry by covering the metal if they might sit on it for any length of time.

 

[CluckingLucky]

Exactly what I was thinking too!