Should I insist they use their coop?

[Claire A]

Elevating the coop is a good idea. You also need to get in there and figure out, is it adequately ventilated? Adequately lit (so they can find their way in at dusk)? Is there enough space so they can all comfortably get on and off the roost without issues?

Up till violet going broody, they religiously put themselves to bed without issue and used the roost. I think they just discovered they prefer a higher perch (maybe?)

It is supposed to be nice this weekend - so a good time to get out there and see if raising it works

I made extra ventilation at the side for them which can be adjusted to suit - but have been leaving the door open being spring - the wire covers the whole top to stop cats and nothing can get to them.

 

[Claire A]

If they are safe from predators, then it is probably fine to let them roost there all year long, if that's what they want to do.

Thanks NatJ - yes nothing can get to them and I could do a better job of closing that section in - the plastic was an impromptu decision to give them space from the rain and weather They hate the rain and pretty much spent all winter in this little space.

 

[NatJ]

Thanks NatJ - yes nothing can get to them and I could do a better job of closing that section in - the plastic was an impromptu decision to give them space from the rain and weather They hate the rain and pretty much spent all winter in this little space.

If they like it, then you might not need to do anything better (Unless it makes you happier to do it.)