Sleeping at the top of the ramp or under the coop

[Amygrowley]

My DH built a beautiful coop and run for our chickens. Why do they choose to sleep at the top of the ramp, all huddled together (and outside) rather than in their cozy accommodations? Our Queen sits at the very top roost and seems to sort of watch over the others. She is a RIR. Our flock is 2 RIR, 2 Orp, 1 Wynadotte, 2 Auracans, and 1 barred rock. The Auracanas and barred rock were just recently added and definitely at the bottom of the pecking order. All are about 9 weeks old. Just let them be? Do they want more bedding on the ground? Ideas? Thanks!

 

[Judy]

Lots of times this can be solved by adding a window near the roost; they like to roost and watch outside. Or you may just have to put them inside for a week or so til they get the idea. Some people add a light around dusk, but it needs to be turned back off when they're all in if you do.

 

[Amygrowley]

Thanks! The coop has two vents at the top and a window. I have a heat lamp in there since our night time temps are running in the low 40's. I've been turning on the lamp at dusk. Should I turn it off or were you referring to more of a night light?

 

[snowflake]

you really don't need a heat lamp unless it is below zero.....unless of course they are very young. I had the same problem when we first built our coop and they were used to staying in a tractor. After putting them inside and night for about a week they go the Idea and now all run in at dusk, good luck, shouldn't take lone for them to figure things out.