This is my first winter with chickens also. First off I have to say that I personally do not like cold weather or being out in the cold. However, I have to remind myself that the horses and chickens are not naked like I am. They have natural insulation. I do provide shelter, liquid water and fresh food. Mother nature takes care of the rest. When we interfere (out of kindness of course) with heat lamps and blankets, it can cause them to not acclimate and prepare for cold weather. Given the choice, all the animals prefer to have the option to play outside. If you think about it, scratching and running and playing are activities that will keep them warmer that just sitting on a perch. Just my thoughts. Having said that, I still feel sorry for every critter that lives outside.
