New coop help

[RochfoKev]

Hi, i just moved my chickens into a larger coop and run yesterday.

Last night when they realized they could not get out they walked up and down the fence until it was dark and i couldn't see them anymore, i don't' think they went in the coop last night.

Today was more of the same, as soon as they see me they are pacing back and forward and sometimes flying at the chicken wire, i put an old door to block their view to stop this.

3 of the 4 still laid, but because they were not in the coop the eggs were just on the grass.

I fed them some rice and corn and put most inside the coop, 3 of the 4 hens went inside to eat while i was there, although they did stay near the entrance.

I am just hoping they will accept the new coop and go in tonight. Does anyone have any tips or advise.
Thanks Kev.......



My 4 Chickens, Choco, Mocha, Cooper and Caramel



The new coop, 9 x 5 inside



Chicken could previously see me at the back door



The run has been tidied up since the photo and no mess inside

 

[TwoCrows]

I recently moved my flock to a new coop as well. And the first night they were pretty scared and wanted back to the old coop. So I made sure I got them inside the coop at dusk and tucked them in, so to speak, making sure they were not alone. Once I turned out the light that first night, they did settle in. The next day they didn't know where to lay their eggs even though the fake eggs were in the new nest boxes and again they paced around the edges looking to get out. I spent a lot of time with them in the run that first and second day. I probably fed them more treats then they should have had, LOL, but it did calm their nerves. The second night they were less frightened to roost. By the third day, everybody was laying well in the boxes and going to roost like they had always been in their new digs.

So my suggestion is to spend a lot of time with them the first few days so they don't feel abandoned and alone. If you are there with them, they will feel more secure. Don't just assume they will head into the coop at night. You may need to help them out a bit for the first day or so till they feel comfortable.