What do I do to get my birds ready for winter?

[big m70726]

my chickens and ducks are in the same pen their roast is semi closed it has a roof so there protected from the rain and other threats . Do the ducks swim in the winter? their pen is inclosed top and bottom but is open as far as wind and sun.

 

[bobbi-j]

It would be helpful to know what your winter weather is like. As a rule, it's best to keep them dry and draft-free.

 

[big m70726]

WELL DOWN HERE IN SOUTH LOUISIANA WE DONT GET TOO COLD HOW EVER DEC AND JAN CAN HAVE SOME COLD SPELLS i HAVE A HEAT LIGHT BUT AM NOT USIN IT NOW. AND WAS THINKIN OF WRAPPIN THE ROAST HALF OF PEN WITH FELT.

 

[Kavellion]

get something to heat ur water so it doesnt freeze over. they have heated founts for sale. prolly at ur feed store but best to get them now before it gets cold and there is a rush.

 

[big m70726]

their drinkin water or the ducks pools?

 

[Kavellion]

naw heat the drinking water or on the coldest days heat lamp in ur coop will keep the founts from freezing over

 

[bobbi-j]

I live in MN. I don't use heat lamps at all, even when it's 20-30 below zero. My chickens have an 8x8 coop, with vented soffits so it doesn't get too humid. I use a heated pet bowl for their water in the winter, and have a light on for 12-14 hours so they have enough light to encourage egg production.