Moving chickens to a new coop

[OrganicFarmWife]

So it is time to move my chickens from their summer home in the Orchard, to their winter home in the barn. The barn is more secure and free from drafts, made from wood instead of tin. Is there an easy way to encourage them to go to the barn at night? Weather permitting I intend to continue to let them free-range during the day. This running around the yard herding chickens is for the birds, but they still want to roost in the orchard.
I have food and water available, a light, plenty of room. Any other tips?

 

[Ol Grey Mare]

Your best bet will be to "home" them to the barn by confining them for a few days (or longer) when you move them.

 

[aart]

Your best bet will be to "home" them to the barn by confining them for a few days (or longer) when you move them.

Ditto Dat^^^^

I'd confine them in their new home for a week at least.

 

[OrganicFarmWife]

Thank you. I left them in their coop this morning. They are not happy with me.

 

[aart]

Thank you. I left them in their coop this morning. They are not happy with me.

Ehhh, they'll get over it....take them some treats later.

 

[OrganicFarmWife]

Ehhh, they'll get over it....take them some treats later.

I was going to even pulled out some liver to defrost. But then my daughter, she's 3, decided that was cruel and unusual so she took it upon herself to let them out. I thought I was so clever making the door easy enough that even she could open and close it.... Oh well. Today was probably a bad day to start anyway

 

[aart]

Quote: LOL.......maybe need an adult latch and a kid latch.