New to forum. Question about heat lamp

[5j's]

I'm new to raising chickens. I live in Massachusetts where it can get cold. I have four 2 year old chickens that got from a friend. I bought a small coop 2 ft x 4.5 ft. it is wired with a 150 watt heat lamp on one end of coop wall. About a foot above roost. i turned it on last night and when i checked the chickens this morning one of them had a couple slightly burnt feathers. Heat lamp had some black marks on it as well. Need advice!! Coop temp stayed at around 43 degrees last night. outside temp was around 32. thanks for any input!!

 

[shortstaque]

Sorry I don't have an answer about the burnt feathers, but it might be helpful to say how old the chickens are. If they are chicks you need the lamp, but if they are pullets/hens there is no need for heat. We put on a down jacket to go out in the cold, they already come equipped with one.

 

[3goodeggs]

I Wonder if chickens are like lobsters? One would think it should have moved on it's own. Can you put the light in a wire cage so that the bird can not get so close?
Welcome to BYC. I wish I could be more helpful. Florida isn't cold yet.

 

[5j's]

good point. thanks!!

 

[biddybird]

As long as the roost is blocked from draft and wind you don't need the light. Those things are too much to worry about. The thought of a fire is just too much risk. If you want a light to increase daylight try one that stays cool. 150 is a Hot light, I have sat 4 feet under one in a 30 degree barn, clipping a show pig and can definately feel the heat.

 

[5j's]

good suggestion. Keep them coming!!