The first night out in the coop.

[redlinda1]

Hi,
I am new to BYC. I have 7 chicks that are 6 weeks old. Tonight is their first night outside. They don't seem to want to get inside the coop just hanging out in the pen. It's a little chilly out...should I lock them in the coop ?

 

[dringge]

I just put mine out about a week ago. The first night when I went out to check on them they were huddled under the ramp. and one was sitting just outside the door. They wouldn't go in because it was darker inside than out. I put a light in with a sensor so it comes on at dusk and goes off 2 hrs later. As soon as the light goes on they scurry in happily.

 

[llandry]

Hi,
I am new to BYC. I have 7 chicks that are 6 weeks old. Tonight is their first night outside. They don't seem to want to get inside the coop just hanging out in the pen. It's a little chilly out...should I lock them in the coop ?

welcome! I live pretty close to you
I think 6 weeks is a tiny bit early for how chilly it still is at night but regardless, it will take a few nights for them to realize they're supposed to go inside. I usually didn't put mine out until about 10 weeks. I've had some that I've had to lock in their run at dusk and once or twice actually put them in the coop and some who just went in. once these chicks get the hang of it, any new ones you add will just follow the leader. it will only take a few days for them to go in on their own. Wait till they do- watching them "go to bed" from a window is pretty cute.

 

[llandry]

Oh sorry, to answer your question, if they haven't gone in the coop yet i'd put them in once its almost dark.

 

[redlinda1]

Thanks, I did put them in and closed the door. They are in for the night whether they like it or not!!!

 

[llandry]

Believe it or not they're happier in the coop even though they didn't go in on their own. They just don't know to do it yet. One or two more nights max and they'll go in alone. Good luck and let us know how its going!