Silkies in Winter

[Aunt Angus]

Ok, ok. It's not really winter here in Central California. But I still wonder. I have two 5 month old Silkies who share a small, elevated coop (3ft x 3ft). They sleep in pine shavings on the coop floor. The coldest it gets here is in the 20's with no snow, so we're not talking the REAL winters some of y'all have to contend with.

I ask only because there are only 2 in that coop. They seemed cold this morning, and it was still in the 30s. Do they generate enough body heat to keep each other warm? They sleep well below the windows, and there are no updrafts to contend with. I've been reading up on BYC. Most say they'll be fine, but none seemed to mention only 2.

Please forgive my naivete....

 

[MotherHen75]

Keep them dry, and a heater might also be a good idea.

 

[Aunt Angus]

Keep them dry, and a heater might also be a good idea.

Thanks!

And that's a very pretty bird in your avatar pic!!!

 

[Mybackyardpeepers]

It is only in the 30's during the day here with snow and wind. Just keep them dry and draft free. Mine go outside daily too, but their part of the run is mostly closed in. Best of luck!

 

[Aunt Angus]

Thanks. It is hot here in summer, and I read somewhere that they can get used to the hot temps and have a hard time adjusting.

And I'm a worrier. That doesn't help...

 

[Mybackyardpeepers]

Thanks. It is hot here in summer, and I read somewhere that they can get used to the hot temps and have a hard time adjusting.

And I'm a worrier. That doesn't help...

Oh trust me I'm a worrier too!!! Mine go inside the coop when they want.

 

[Waves]

Excusme me for intromission i have a question.
my silkies never go in the coop when it rains, they don't want to go in.
is it a problem for them?

 

[Mybackyardpeepers]

Excusme me for intromission i have a question.
my silkies never go in the coop when it rains, they don't want to go in.
is it a problem for them?

Are they able to go in on their own? If the rain is getting them wet then yes it can be an issue.

 

[Waves]

Yes, they can, but they don't want

 

[Mybackyardpeepers]

Yes, they can, but they don't want

Ok. Mine were having an issue with the ramp I had, so that's why I asked. I used to run out every time it rained to throw mine in, and I still ended up with one sneezing. They are now in a 75% enclosed run with better access to my coop. I believe silkies are just a stubborn breed and if they are going to get a cold drench you are better off throwing them in.