Ok, new question (for me): wintering the flock

[chookalina]

Any advice on over wintering? We live in Radium BC, have a November to March winter. Doesn't usually get horrifically cold... and the coop is insulated and we have a heater in there. But during the cold months, when they cannot range quite as much, am I looking at issues I should prepare for now?

 

[rungirl]

Block drafts from blowing on them, but make sure you have good ventilation up high in the roof to prevent humidity build up in the coop. You don't need to heat. In fact, heating the coop is probably harder on them because they can't aclimate to the winter temperatures.

 

[chookalina]

what about in really cold weather, like -30? have you tried those ceramic inserts you can put in a bulb socket? my understanding is they put off just a small amount of heat and no light. perhaps I should knit them scarves....

 

[Tammy N]

what about a 5 g bucket with lid and hot water to lay by would that work ?

 

[chfite]

Chickens have a good layer of feathers to keep them warm. If there are no drafts, they should be fine.

Some of the board members are in Alaska, and they neither insulate nor heat.

Chris