Thinking about moving our flock to the summer home in the country

[THV]

We're thinking about moving our flock of 15 hens- ages 2-4, to our place in the country for the summer. The would have a secure coop and be protected from any predators- but not sure how they would do with the transition- about an hour away by car from the home they're in now. Anyone have any experience w/relocating a flock? Suggestions on how to transport?
thanks
Tim

 

[teach1rusl]

Just know that chickens don't like change, so they would mostly likely stop laying (most of them) for several weeks with each move. It will also take a few weeks for them to learn what "home" is each time you relocate them.
An hour away is not so bad for moving them: I'd just use dog crates (several to a crate depending on size of crate) covered with old sheets or something to kind of keep them in the dark. Large cardboard boxes with large vent. holes would work too...several to a box. For an hour drive, don't worry about food/water. As a matter of fact, if you could make the drive around dusk, that would be ideal. Easy to gather the girls when they go to roost.