My chickens won't roost!

[oldhenlikesdogs]

They get to run the backyard almost every day, and when they don't they have 5x10 with roosts which are not much higher than what's in the coop. They aren't cold at night because they have a heated coop with fresh food, water, and bedding. 4 batches of six hens have been using the same coop/setup over the past 14 years and NEVER has there been an issue.

Could be they are too hot. Heat isn't necessary, and can make them uncomfortable.

 

[aceintoledo]

Could be they are too hot. Heat isn't necessary, and can make them uncomfortable.

It's just a 60 watt bulb primarily for keeping the egg production going with the shorter amount of daylight. They didn't roost before the light and they're not doing it with the light. I personally could care less if they use the bar or not, just find it to be a little strange considering I've never seen this happen before. They behave like all the ones in the past however one night I went out to shut their door for the night (it was dark) and they hadn't gone in the coop! Out and about in the yard like it was the middle of the day, freaked me out when I walked around behind the garage and found them still out.

 

[MissChick@dee]

What are your perches like?
Skinny? Fat? Round? Square? Flat 2x4?

 

[aceintoledo]

2x2, same size as the ones they perch on in the outside run.

 

[ChickNanny13]

Chickens are "funny" ... My DH always reminds me
"Every batch is different & has their own quirks"

 

[aceintoledo]

Went out this morning to feed water and open the run to let them out and as I get in view of the coop there they are, all perched outside in the run! I just don't get it! Well, this is going to be their first winter, maybe when we start hitting the teens or single digits they'll want to get off the floor.

 

[aart]

Could be they are too hot. Heat isn't necessary, and can make them uncomfortable.

I can see where @oldhenlikesdogs thought they might be too warm.....

They aren't cold at night because they have a heated coop with fresh food, water, and bedding.

 

[Larouxbestfan]

Lol i relate! I have some younger Cochin chickens who just huddle in the corner or sit together on top of the trashcan we keep our feed in!
Ive had some of my silkies do the same thing, but i don't worry about it. As long as they're safe and have someone to sleep next to. They usually get around to roosting at night when they're ready. But that's just my personal experience. I'm definitely not an expert lol