I have a few questions for my fellow Jerseyans...
I'm new to chicken-keeping, but like to think I've been a quick learner
My girls are just over 12 weeks old and were moved to their coop about 2 weeks ago.
My question is whether any of you do heat your coops at all during the winter?
There seems to be a vocal group of BYC members who are staunchly anti-heat. I know the basic arguments they raise, and I understand the logic, BUT:
a) I am not talking about using a heat lamp that could be a fire hazard, I'm interested in radiant heating, or panel heating--I've seen floor mats, too, that are sold for coops;
b) my electricity has NEVER gone out for an extended period, so there really isn't a danger that my girls will suddenly be without heat;
c) I am raising my 5 girls as PETS with benefits (eggs), not for profit, so the cost of a few added dollars tacked on to my electric bill won't keep me up at night, or keep food off the table.
d) My coop (Amish-made) is not insulated and so far, the interior temperature appears to be only a few degrees higher than outside before I open it up in the morning, even though I have probably the max number of hens it should house. It doesn't seem to retaining their heat as much as I thought it would. Is it still too early/warm to really tell?
My main cause for concern is the sleety, damp days we get in NJ during the winter months--those mornings when you wake up and everything is a covered by layers of sleet and ice, and even the dog doesn't want to go outside.
Another option I've been toying with is possibly bringing the girls into my garage on any nights when the temperature drops dangerously low. I have a small hutch/run that I used before the coop came, and I could set them up in that if we get any brutal nights.
Am I too worried? I'm probably being to much of a softie, wanting to keep them "comfortable"--as I see it? I did choose breeds that have small combs and are well-suited to cold, but I have one little bantam Easter Egger, who is my favorite--the thought of her being uncomfortable would break my heart...