New chicks. Floor or coop?

[Puckaster]

My hen and her new chicks don't like to go into the coop at night. The last 2 nights I have picked chicks and mum up from the floor of the run and had to put them into there coop, much to mum's annoyance, and a great deal of pecking. The coop has a gentle sloop to about 8 inch off the ground. They come down by themselves alright the next day. Am I best off making a rat proof sheltered sleeping area at ground level or shall I continue to put them to bed? I worry about them being exposed of the floor.

 

[ChickenGirl555]

I'm not sure, and I want to have a broody raise some chicks in Spring and I'll have the same situation, so I'm going to see what others say...sorry this wasn't helpful.

 

[True Patriot]

An enclosed crate at ground level may work. How old are the chicks? Where does she take them when you put them in? If they're not old enough to roost she may need a nest to make her feel safer about the situation. Pics of the coop inside and out may help get more suggestions.

 

[Puckaster]

Chicks are 3 day old now. She take the chicks into the nesting box after being put inside. It's a small coop that they have all to themselves. This one
https://www.greenfrogdesigns.co.uk/chicken-lodge-small/

 

[True Patriot]

The coop appears to have little ventilation or daylight. It could be a factor in their hesitation to use it. Look into some way to let some more fresh air and light in.

 

[chickens really]

Keep putting them up. They will learn to Following Momma in a few more days.

 

[Chickassan]

I agree, chickens don't like going into spots where they cannot see. If nothing else try putting a little light in there and take it out once mom and babies are safely inside. How is that coop ventilated btw, I don't see any vents or windows. The photos only show a few angles so are there some just not being shown?

The coop appears to have little ventilation or daylight. It could be a factor in their hesitation to use it. Look into some way to let some more fresh air and light in.

 

[Puckaster]

Thanks for your replys. In the end I put an old small run/coop with ply on the bottom in there and roof and two sides for them to nest in. They are much happier in there on the floor and I lock it at night. One of the chicks has a broken toe which I've just noticed. I posted another thread to see what advise might be given in this regards.