To heat or not to heat?

[Who Rules The Roost]

Hello my wise chicken keeping friends! I have 9- 4 week old chicks 4-Rhode Island Reds and 5 Silver laced Wyandotte's I just got them yesterday and they went straight into the coop like little champions! And per my hatcheries advice. Last night lows were in the 50's, so I think they were fine....They were great this morning. Tonight into the 40's. But tomorrow nights lows are 30. Their coo pis not insulated currently. The guy I bought the coop from used ceramic amphibian heaters to heat it, so I do have those if I need to use them, although I don't know much about them other than a couple articles that say they are a safe alternative than heating lamps. What do you all suggest? Do I need to add heat or let them be? This is my first attempt at raising chickens and I think I've worried more about these 9 girls than when I brought each of my 3 children home! Thank you!

 

[BFen]

Just to understand correctly, are the youngest chicks 4 weeks old? Or are some younger?

 

[Who Rules The Roost]

They are all 4 weeks old

 

[BFen]

I know you said the coop isn't insulated, but is it drafty? If not, I think they would be fine if they are fully feathered. Which they usually are at 4 weeks. They will all huddle throughout the night.

 

[Who Rules The Roost]

It's not drafty I wouldn't say especially down low where they are at. And you're right, they are huddlers. The coop is made from metal/steel so it's definitely wind proof.

 

[Who Rules The Roost]

Also, how do you know if they're fully feathered or not?

 

[BFen]

Yes, they will be good, esp if they have a nice thick bedding/wood chips to snuggle into!

 

[Who Rules The Roost]

Thank You! I use hemp bedding, so it's nice and snuggly for them!

 

[BFen]

Usually at 4 weeks they are fully feathered even if the feathers are small. All their fuzzy hair would be gone. Do you have a photo of them?

 

[Who Rules The Roost]