What is the earliest I can move my chicks to the coop?

[BethieofVA]

Right now they are almost two weeks old and living in a 50gal Rubbermaid tote. How long do you think they can stay in there? I would love to be able to move outside the first chance, but absolutely want to do the right thing by them. My container is 18 inches deep, what age do I have to be concerned about them flying out? LOL! Right now they are uncovered and kinda jump up and down at each other. ADORABLE!!

 

[Domestic_goddess]

I would say that you don't have much time.....some of mine are a month old and will not stay in the brooder. They actually jump out and then back in when ever they want to. I'm hesitant to stick them outside just yet, it still freezes at night and the younger ones are about 3 weeks old, although if your coop/pen is secure and free of drafts, with a heat lamp.....you might be able to do it now! I would worry though. Mine might be going out next tuesday!

 

[BethieofVA]

I am thinking more like four weeks or better. I live on the east coast of VA(Yorktown) and although it will be 80-85 this weekend, it changes overnight.

Thanks!

 

[abanjaf]

My 5-week-olds spend their days in the coop and sleep in the brooder in the house at night (no lamp). I will probably leave them out at night in about another 2 weeks (will put the heat lamp out in the coop just in case

 

[Alphau]

Mine just turned 6 weeks old and got the eviction, but its in the 80s here..so yea

But about 4 weeks old they got out of the brooder ALL THE TIME!

 

[Carenm]

mine are 4 & 1/2 weeks. Its in the 70's or 80's here, even some 90's this week but is still almost freezing at night. I let them in the run and coop area by day but they come back in at night to sleep in the brooder

 

[BethieofVA]

Ok, so I am thinking depending on the weather, couple more weeks outside during the day and maybe back in the broader at night!

 

[jettgirl24]

Mine are 6 weeks and got the eviction notice this week too

It's 50's and wet during the day, mid to upper 30's at night right now.

 

[Makenziejh]

I have never heard of a specific week to put a chicken in the coop. I put mine out then they started jumping out of their tub and onto the floor

 

[BethieofVA]

I have never heard of a specific week to put a chicken in the coop. I put mine out then they started jumping out of their tub and onto the floor

Too funny!