Newbie here

[mudd32]

This being my very first post please be gentle and keep in mind I am chicken stupid.

So I got my kids some Golden Comets and we've decided to keep them.
How old do the chicks need to be before I can put them outside in the elements?
I am going to coop them up at night and let them free range during the day.

I will take any and all advice as this is my first go'round with chickens.

Thanks in advance...

 

[Cockle-Dood]

Welcome to the club! As far as going outside, most will say about 6 weeks depending on your weather and time of year. Here in Texas, i have a batch of 5-week olds that really could go outside any time now!

How many chickens do you have? that will determine the size of your coup, since you are free ranging run space wont matter. I am using an 8'x8' shed for my 15 chickens, but should be able to fit about 20 in there comfortably enough for them!

i hope this helps! dont be shy and ask away, the only dumb questions are the ones that arent asked!

 

[DraigAthar]

Where do you live? What are your night-time temps like?

 

[mudd32]

I live in Northern Kentucky but the temps here have been really cold...I was figuring about mid April.
I plan to have a heat lamp in the coop just in case of a cold snap...and for winter.

 

[mattsinger]

once they are fully feathered, and have access to a coop to get out of the weather, they really wont need a heat lamp.