Newbie needing help

[crc310]

I adopted an 8 month old broody BSL hen. She adopted and hatched 4 RIR 3 1/2 weeks ago. The guy I got her from said just stick them in the coop and she would do the rest. I keep hearing never put a heat lamp in the coop. I have a 4'x4' converted dog house. It has openings in the peak on front and back. The weather in MI had been nasty since I got them on Tuesday. This morning the water had a layer of ice. There is pine and straw in the bottom and they haven't been outside yet since it's been so cold and wet (last night it snowed). Am I just a nervous new chicken owner or should I be concerned about it being so cold? The babies are 3 1/2 weeks old and mostly feathered (I think). I gave fresh warm water and warm oatmeal, applesause, dead mealworm, and fine grit mix this morning along with chick grow crumbles.

Thanks for any advice!

 

[JanO]

It sounds like they are doing fine. As long as they have shelter from the wind and rain the hen will keep the chicks warm and protected . Just keep an eye on their water so it doesn't freeze, and feed them well.

 

[BRchickens775]

I agree with JanO. So yeah, just make sure they are out of the weather and the hen will do the rest. However, if they are living outside, they would probably appreciate a bowl of warm oatmeal.

 

[crc310]

Thanks for the boost of confidence! I love my animals and I always do what is best for them! If it were up to me they would have a $10,000 heated/ air conditioned mansion! Lol