New peeps from Florida :)

[gypsychix]

Hey there--
My name is Jackie and my hubby is Justin. We are new to this WHOLE thing and it has been lovely!! Our chicks are almost 7 months now, we got them on day 2 We currently have 5 Buff Orps and LOVE them dearly!!!! We are in Tampa, FL and have some BASIC questions for whoever can help:

1. Best ways to keep them cool?

2. What to do about a pre-fab coop we bought that is A TOTAL POS!!!!! We made some modifications to make it functional (more ventilation/added a HUGE run/etc). My hubby is VERY HANDY and loves his girls so he is always looking for ways to improve it. They love the nesting boxes, and use them well.

3. Should we expand the small coop or just create a roosting spot seperate from the (pre-fab coop with the nesting boxes?!?)

4. What are your fave feeders/waterers?

Thanks for the info
Jackie

 

[RoyalChick]

Welcome to BYC!
I am in NJ so have different issues but it gets hot in the summer and my answer is shade and ventilation. Lots of ventilation. More ventilation than you think is wise!
Others will weigh in but in Florida you could probably have an almost completely open coop. Just some protection from wind.

 

[416bigbore]

Hello Jackie and welcome to BYC, You found an Amazing Poultry Community to be a part of with many great knowledgeable members, who are more then willing to jump in and help you along your journey with any questions you may have.

 

[N F C]

Hi Jackie, I used to live in FL and the heat can do a real number on a flock. This article might give you some ideas on ways to fight it: top-ways-to-keep-your-chickens-cool-in-summer.76731

Best wishes!

 

[Kenneth Zweerink]

Welcome to BackYard Chickens ! And a Big Hello from the Backwoods of Eastern Nebraska.

 

[DobieLover]

Hello, Jackie, and welcome to BYC! Glad you joined.

 

[swampfox440]

Hi Jackie , Welcome to BYC! nice to meet you .

 

[sourland]

Good morning, Jackie and Justin, and welcome to BYC.

 

[Pork Pie]

Hi Jackie and welcome to BYC. This link may help you navigate the site - “How to...” guides
Chat with other BYC members nearby using the links in my signature, below (turn your phone to landscape to see them).Make yourself at home and enjoy the forums.


Best wishes


Pork Pie

 

[rjohns39]

Hi Jackie and welcome to BYC We're so happy you've decided to join us