Letting chicks free range

[grettasurfergirl]

We have four chicks that are almost 10 weeks old now, three Easter Eggers and one Silkie. They have adjusted well to moving outdoors into their coop and small run area. It’s not that big but meets the minimums for space per bird. If we wanted to let them out one day in our fenced in backyard to free range would they know to go back into their coop at night? If not, how do I get them to go back in during the evening? They live up at the top of a terraced area in the backyard so I’m worried it may not be obvious to them as to where to go. And I have not clipped their wings yet. Thanks for any advice!!

 

[CountryFlock]

Not sure how safe your area is but from my experience I’d lose a chicken once per season when I let them free range. Make sure it’s safe.

Some flocks of my chickens know where to go back in and some don’t. I’d assume in your case they would though.

If you decide to let them free range, make sure they’re safe. I mean really make sure.

 

[aart]

If we wanted to let them out one day in our fenced in backyard to free range would they know to go back into their coop at night? If not, how do I get them to go back in during the evening?

They should.
First time let them out late in day, an hour before roost time, they won't go too far before they need to roost.
Can 'call' them by 'rattling the treat can'...good to get them used to this before ranging.