New Mama Coop Transitioning Fears

[4Kids 8Chicks]

I am brand new to this forum and to chicken raising. My chickens are 7 weeks old, we live in Minnesota where the days have been 70's and nights high 50's-60's... I have been so excited about getting the ladies out to their new digs! We finally did it today, the kids and I brought them all out into their run. They LOVED it. Tonight, they DID NOT want to go into the coop. I looked out there a minute ago and they are all huddled next to the door (plexiglass so I can see them). It's sort of sad. Is this a normal reaction to their new digs? Do I need to leave them in the coop all day tomorrow and then let them out into the run again in a few days?? I lack experience and don't want to lose any of these gals we have cared for so well for this long. HELP!!

 

[Judy]

They're probably just afraid because the coop is new to them. Yes, that is quite normal. If there is some air movement and natural light in there, and it's not warmer than outdoors, they will probably go in soon enough. You can try bribing them in with treats, or simply set them in there by hand for a few nights til they get the idea. Some people lock them in the coop for a few days at first, though I hate to see them locked up, especially if the run is secure from predators.