So we've introduced 3 more to our 5.. Sleeping arrangements...?

[devs]

Hi guys, we had 5 and have just introduced a further 3 in the evening whilst dark. Its now been 3 weeks and the 3 new hens are not sleeping on the perch with the others. Two are on the floor and the other is on top of the food bin.

I let them all free range around our large garden all day and they are split into 2 camps new and old. The old hens go to bed first and the new 3 follow later.

Any tips on how to get them to get on and sleep on the perch?

Thanks

Bonus question.... I use a timer light over winter in the coop and all have been laying.. At what stage should I turn this light off and is it likely to have a negative impact?

 

[aart]

Hi guys, we had 5 and have just introduced a further 3 in the evening whilst dark. Its now been 3 weeks and the 3 new hens are not sleeping on the perch with the others. Two are on the floor and the other is on top of the food bin.

Surprised you had no blood letting.
How big is your coop, in feet by feet?
How long is roost?
Dimensions and pics would help immensely here.

Bonus question.... I use a timer light over winter in the coop and all have been laying.. At what stage should I turn this light off and is it likely to have a negative impact?

I'd leave it on until duration matches real day length.

 

[devs]

Hi and thanks for the reply. It must be 6x4ft with a 6ft roost..

 

[aart]

Pics of inside of coop, please?
I find adding a separate roost for newbies helps.

 

[devs]

Sure here you go... Thanks

 

[aart]

I'd guess I'd lower that garbage can(feed?) and add another roost at same level across end of coop there.