Not sure about first night outside

[andreasowell]

Hi Fellow Chicken Owners!
I have four 8 week hens who will spend their first night outside tonight. Can anyone please tell me if I am supposed to lock them in to the coup at night (the part that closes up with a door)? The whole thing is predator proof so they would be safe if I didn't lock them in but wanted to know if I am supposed to. Thanks for any advice in advance!

 

[Fred's Hens]

Probably, for your own peace of mind, anyhow.

I'd have them fixate on the coop, having them really own it, for awhile. Tough to lock them for a few days when most places are having a heat wave.

Oh, and welcome to BYC

 

[Edimcreedi]

i put my chicks out at 4 weeks and all have been fine, and you should do whatever you feel is comfortable, I have big pens around my 4 week olds onwards and no chance of anything getting in but I still lock the door, safety for them, and eases there owners mind, if they dont go inside the coop themselves then a little encouragement is needed, after day 2 your newly outdoor chicks should have graseped that, that is where they sleep

 

[andreasowell]

Thanks you guys! So, I guess you are saying that it is ok to leave them out in their secure area and not worry about locking them away for the night in the coop. They have been in the basement for quite a while so this is liberating but also scary to have them out....thanks again for your input guys! Andrea

 

[centrarchid]

Ideally they should roost in coop. Also not in close proximity to the fencing / wire that keeps them inside. If pile up against perimeter, it makes it easy for predators to pull them through.