Hi all - we're picking our first four chickens up tomorrow. They're about 15 weeks old. Our coop and run are all complete, and we've just found out that we need to go visit a very sick family member this weekend. We get the birds first thing Wednesday and need to leave midday Friday. We'll be back midday Monday. So... what's my best bet on how to care for my brand new chickens safely while we're away? I have read on here that many of you keep your new chickens in the coop (not allowed in the run or free range) for the first few days so they get accustomed to their new home. I hadn't planned to do that, but given our travel perhaps that's the best idea? Can I keep four chickens in a 4 x 8 coop for three days? There is good ventilation and a window for light. Or should I find a neighbour who can open the coop door in the morning and shut them up at night? Thanks much...
Congrats on your new birds! Well, since they are still small, they will be fine in the size coop that you have. It would be best to go ahead and leave them closed in the coop as soon as you bring them home. If not, they will probably decide to sleep in the run, which is no good. Also, you can keep an eye on them to make sure they are getting along how much they are eating/drinking, etc. For the weekend, just ask your neighbor to check on the food and water - especially if it's hot where you are ... Then by next Wed., you should be able to let them out in the run and then they should go back into the coop to sleep. Good luck!
I agree with ascorbic. Have someone check on them and make sure they haven't dumped their water. That is apt to happen if they get excited about any new noise, etc. They should be fine, though. Actually after you get back, you could probably let them into the run during the day and just make sure they go back in at night. I always check then shut the pop door on mine.
