my chickens and the rain--normal?

[biretta]

Hi. It's been raining nonstop all day and my chickens aren't seeking refuge in their hen house. They do however, stay under the house when it rains--I have it raised 16" off the ground--and just stand there looking miserable. Since the floor is cement and covered with sand, the water pools somewhat and I am afraid their feet will get macerated, leading to skin breakdown and then be susceptible to infection. I've read too that chickens don't do too well in wet conditions, being prone to respiratory infections. Do your chickens stay in the hen house when it's wet out or do they also insist on remaining outside? I finally locked them in after putting a 40 watt light in the house.

 

[wendy]

ours don't get out of the rain most of the time but do get close to the pin oaks tree trunks. which provide some break to them from getting totally drenched!

 

[Gracefulspice]

If it's a light rain I will leave mine out if they want to be out. But if it's a storm or days upon days of rain I will lock them up. A couple of days ago it was pouring rain thunder and lightning. I thought if they got wet enough they would go in on their own, but nope.

They were drenched to the bone. I had to go out there, catch 5 very quick hens, and put them into the coop.

Needless to say I too was soaked They seemed confused on where to go. Now when it rains tho they go in on their own.

I think some chickens just can't figure it out.

 

[biretta]

So much for chicken intelligence! Their talents must lie in *other *areas...