What is a safe temp. to put my chicks outside?

[debramedwards]

I have 5 week old Dominique chicks. They are practically fully feathered, aside from some stray baby feathers hanging on. I have been keeping them inside due to the weather here in middle TN.
I was wondering if it would be safe to put them in the outside run with a heat lamp.
It looks like during the day will be 45-60 degrees and night will get to 20-40 degrees.
I don't mind keeping them inside but I can tell they are itching to be outside!
Thanks!

 

[Judy]

Not exactly sure what you're asking here.

The question is whether they have been acclimated to the outdoors. I would start with a few hours in the warm part of the day, and work up to all night in a week or so. If they have already been spending time outdoors, I would just put them out there, if there is a coop with some hay or whatever that they can snuggle down into at night. They should not need a heat lamp.

 

[BantamFan4Life]

Welcome to BYC! I'm glad you joined us!

 

[BantamLover21]

I'm glad you joined our "flock!"

 

[Wyandottes7]

Welcome to BYC!

I'm glad you joined us.

 

[1muttsfan]

Hi and welcome to BYC from northern Michigan

By 6 weeks they will be fully feathered and no longer need supplemental heat, given adequate shelter at night.

 

[Kelsie2290]

Hello and Welcome To BYC!

 

[Mountain Peeps]

Welcome to BYC! Please make yourself at home and we are here to help.

They have to be fully feathered to be living outside permanently. But the temps need to be at least 50 during the day.

 

[drumstick diva]

Could you just enlarge their brooder and give them some toys to kick around for entertainment? You could give them a real branch to perch on, bright colored ball, some wooden blocks that could investigate etc. If they are trying to fly out of the brooder - you can put a wire top on it to keep them safely (from pets, and falls) inside. Bet they are adorable at this age.