New coop almost complete...moving day is tomorrow!

[MIChickens84]

First time having chickens, excited to finally move these birds outside. Wanted to share the shed style coop I’m building. Getting very close to complete and close enough to move all 17 hens outside tomorrow. Comments and ideas for improvements always welcome!

How long should I keep them locked inside the shed before letting them outside?

Coop dims:
Shed - 14’ x 8’
Outdoor run - 21’ x 14’

 

[dunnmom]

Oh wow! That's a really nice setup.

 

[chickengirl778]

Very nice!!!

 

[junkman56]

I kept my chicks closed in the coop for 3 or 4 days, after that they new where to go to roost.

 

[rosemarythyme]

Very nice! I would lock them up 2-4 days to "home" them to the coop.

 

[imnukensc]

I wouldn't lock them in the coop at all. Place them in the coop at dusk when it's time to roost. They'll figure it out within a few days. Very nice coop and run!

 

[aart]

Gorgeous setup!!
You are gonna love that covered run come winter....am so jeally!!

I'd keep them in the coop for a few days.

I wouldn't lock them in the coop at all. Place them in the coop at dusk when it's time to roost.

That seemingly gentle 'placement' is usually proceeded by chasing them down to catch them...I avoid chasing chickens whenever possible.

Tho that run looks pretty darn secure, so they might be able to sleep out there safely.

 

[imnukensc]

Gorgeous setup!!
You are gonna love that covered run come winter....am so jeally!!

I'd keep them in the coop for a few days.

That seemingly gentle 'placement' is usually proceeded by chasing them down to catch them...I avoid chasing chickens whenever possible.

Tho that run looks pretty darn secure, so they might be able to sleep out there safely.

I avoided the chasing by placing a low roost in the run. After they roosted, I placed them in the coop. I should've been more clear.

 

[aart]

I avoided the chasing by placing a low roost in the run. After they roosted, I placed them in the coop. I should've been more clear.

Ohhhh...yes, after dark works much better.

 

[ChickenRelatedUserName]

I think it only took me placing them on the roost two times before they figured it out. That was actually roosting, they went into the coop right away. The coop was their third home as I moved them a few times while raising them.