Strong Rain and wind tonight and tomorrow.

[Rhodeislandsilkie]

Hey guys. Right now it’s pretty windy right now and, my hens seem fine. They look pretty calm. Also, it rained about 30 minutes ago. So, I’m mostly concerned that they might get really cold and huddle up. The last time it rained, they were only a few weeks and in the brooder. So, should I get the old heat lamp or should I do something else to their coop. They might gets drenched in water. Can chickens get hypothermia? If you have any tips, that would be really helpful. Thanks!

 

[DobieLover]

How old are they now?

 

[SueT]

How old are they? Is your coop not weatherproof? I wouldn't think you'd need a heat lamp in CA if they are fully feathered. Chickens, like wild birds have feathers and down to keep them warm.

 

[Rhodeislandsilkie]

They are 19 weeks. 2 are 18 weeks.

 

[Rhodeislandsilkie]

The coop is weatherproof.
They are fully feathered and seem fine.

 

[Rhodeislandsilkie]

Does anyone know how cold a chicken can get before they freeze to death?

 

[SueT]

They are grown up, no need to worry about them. Our chickens have already had 11º F this winter. Last year we had lows in the single digits and they did fine. Your chickens are not going to freeze to death.

 

[Rhodeislandsilkie]

Okay, that’s good to know. Thanks for helping!

 

[rosemarythyme]

Wind and rain shouldn't be an issue as long as your coop is fairly waterproof and vents are oriented properly for your location.

If you're in CA, unless up in the high mountains, you will never get cold enough to worry about supplemental heat past the first few weeks. Your chickens have a natural down coat that keeps them plenty warm.

 

[Rhodeislandsilkie]

Thanks, I don't live high in the mountains but the exact opposite. Now, I'm sure they'll be fine.