New chick and mom hen stayed in run instead of going into coop tonight - suggestions?

[4boymom]

We have a hen who just hatched a new chick. We are concerned because it’s going to be 26 degrees tonight and the hen stayed in the run with the chick instead of going in the coop to roost tonight with the rest of the chickens. She’s fiercely protective and is covering the chick. Should we just let her stay in the run or try to physically put the hen and chick in the coop tonight?

 

[cavemanrich]

It is quite chilly where you are at. Are there more eggs to hatch?? If there are more eggs,, then those may be too cold to hatch.
In the dark, you can easily capture your chicken. I would place inside coop at least. Second option,, place into a pet carrier, and take into home. then return to coop run in the morning.


WISHING YOU BEST,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,and

 

[BDutch]

Has the run a roof? Is it protected from cold wind and snowstorms where she sits?

To give some extra shelter/warmth:
Can you put a very large box over her with an opening to get out in the morning if she needs to? Make a small hole at the top for ventilation. Put some straw in the box, around the place she sits.

 

[DobieLover]

Hello and welcome to BYC! Glad you joined.

How large is your coop? Is it a walk-in coop where the chickens can just go in with a step or two to hop up or do they have to navigate a ramp? Chicks are not good at navigating ramps. Their mothers know this and they will therefore not attempt to take them up a ramp until they are developed enough to do so.

 

[muddy75]

 

[007Sean]

Howdy, and Welcome to Backyard Chickens.

Happy to have you here with us. Enjoy your time here at BYC!

Thanks for joining our community!

 

[janiedoe]

Welcome to BYC.
I see some insightful questions have been asked already.

 

[Jenbirdee]

 

[Bsmac]

Hello! Welcome to BYC! I see some great advice has been given! Best of luck!

 

[Debbie292d]

Hiya, and welcome to BYC!

I hope it all worked out for you and them last night. I know how worried you were, as we're where it's cold too, so I'd have also been concerned. I would have moved her and the chick inside if it had happened here. Hopefully it ended well and you'll have it figured out for tonight.

We're glad you're here!