the girls want to run free!

[cluckiemama]

We have 6 five week old chicks in a very large dog cage in the basement (too cold in MA to put them outside yet, I think). When I open the cage to feed, clean, etc - they seem ready to make a run for it. I'm really not excited about having them running (and pooping) around the house.... but do you think a 4ft x 4 ft cage is too small for them? They have plenty of room to walk around in the cage. Maybe they're just very interested...

 

[Gonzo]

Do you have a safe area in your yard where you can take them out to play for a bit? That would be great fun for them and you as well. I use a puppy playyard for our clowns. They really love to go outside! I think the 4x4 is fine btw..

 

[cluckiemama]

thanks! I think I could set up a safe area with some old screen doors. I'm just worried because of the cold - it was 35 degrees in Boston today!

 

[teach1rusl]

16 sq. feet is enough space for their age right now. They are like young, playful, curious children right now, wanting to be out exploring. If you have electricity available in your coop, you could give them a go in their adult home (small lamp), even if it was a just for a few hours a day, and back in the pen for night time.

 

[chicmom]

I brood my chicks in the house too....I have a room in the basement, and I keep their brooder in there. Usually I only get three chicks at a time, but this time, I got SIX. Welllll, it's too cold here in Ohio too, and they're like 5 weeks old now and the large plastic storage bin I had is just too small. TSC sells these black rubber water tubs that are PERFECT! They do run about $59.00, but you can use them as your brooder for young chicks every year.....Money well spend I think. I think the tub is like 110 gallons......

I think you're in the same boat I was......they might start pulling out feathers and bullying one another if they're all cramped up......

Hope you find something bigger that is in your budget..

Sharon

 

[Gonzo]

Quote:
Yeah, thats too cold. I let mine go out for about 10 ~ 15 minutes when it was in the 40's here. Its hopefully going to warm up some next week.