Nighttime coop terror

[rosemarythyme]

Hmm well I know some folks like having chicks decide for themselves when to start roosting, but I think in this case I'd start encouraging them to use the roost at night, just because chicks can occasionally hurt each other if they pile up at night. So instead of shutting the pop door at dusk, just let them go in as they please, then wait until it's very nearly dark and go back out. Pick them up off the floor and place them on the roost (you can also close the pop door at this time). Don't be surprised if they try jumping off or cry in confusion, because this is new to them. But they're old enough that they should start getting the hang of it in a few days.

 

[aart]

Wait until full dark to close the door?

 

[Azmomm]

Wait until full dark to close the door?

This is probs best solution. Last night i did not close coop door, luckey to have secure run, andthey stayed inside. Tonight, due to wind i will shut aftee dark

 

[Azmomm]

happy to report. 8 wks old today. All 8 were on the top perch, about 5 ft up
Lots of sqabbles but settled as it got dark. 720 pm ish here. I have not been closing the small coop door and let them decide on their own when to coop up. Once they are finally settled it is quiet as can be. The perch is 4 1/2 ft long 2 by 4 laid flat. I think they hop from seveeal lower perches to get up that high. 4 are tightly snugged on one end and 2 are at the other. One, appenzeller prob male, in center with elbow room. Just thought i would post

 

[Julesstarohio56]

My 8-9 weekers have been in the coop for 2 weeks now. It’s pretty amusing to watch them get all worried looking, peeping and craning their necks to spot the roost, then figure a way up. Last night was the most successful because I added an extra tree branch for an intermediate place from which to fly up. They do, however, get Into a “traffic jam” because no one wants to move from their spot. As a newbie chicken keeper, I’m slowly seeing how they can fend for themselves and relaxing my Mother Hen tendencies. They are starting to free range and pick the woods for shelter and run to the coop for emergencies. Loving it all!