This animal is not a hen

[6BeachChicks]

Wow! Thank you all for the advice!!! So we will keep a close eye and let our little guy know not to venture into the coop alone. We also found out the rooster is technically not allowed within city limits--no one has complained yet but we are looking for a new home since we are so new to all of this! Thanks for the great advice on egg laying as well. We are only getting 8 and a half hours of daylight currently so that makes sense.

What a great community! Thank you all very much!

I just wanted to add, you should get a thick pair of rubber boots for you and your kid. It will come in handy if the rooster tries to attack you, especially for your kid. And for them being cold, they snuggle together on the roosting bar, and their normal body temperature is higher then people. You are doing a great job, keep it up! Also, can I see a picture of your run and coop? If it’s not predator proof that’s an isssue.

 

[AntiqueB]

For winter, ventilation really is key. If you have girls with big combs, you may want to put something on them to keep frostbite away. I discovered Musher's Secret (from a post on this site!) and it worked for me last year.

I hear you about feeling bad, though. I have a heat plate in the coop that I turn on low at night when it's below freezing. Normally, I find them huddled on the OTHER side of the coop. This year, however, the molting girls sat next to it.

Welcome, and enjoy your chickens! I love mine!