What should i do with 5 cockerels?

[aart]

We actually do, 10ft x 20ft.

Does it have a roof and wind breaking walls?
It's when frigid temps and/or high winds and/or lots of snow fall happens mine stay in the coop for days on end. ChickenCabinFever is real, and it can get ugly.

However, if that's not enough, maybe keeping the new pullet and cockerel in the garage would be best?

Probably, since the current space isn't good for integration.

 

[AntiqueB]

I agree with @aart . Mine also only slept in the coop, and roamed the backyard during waking hours. Then it snowed. They refused to walk on it. They stayed in the coop until the paths I shoveled for them melted enough for them to see the ground. It was a long few days, I tell you!

 

[Deezchix]

Does it have a roof and wind breaking walls?
It's when frigid temps and/or high winds and/or lots of snow fall happens mine stay in the coop for days on end. ChickenCabinFever is real, and it can get ugly.


Probably, since the current space isn't good for integration.

Yes, it has a sturdy framed roof with polycarbonate (sp?) panels and 3 windbreaking walls. They hang out there often when it's windy or rains hard or hawk flying by. They hung out there last time we had a little snow to prune and fluff up. But I understand your very valid points based on your experience. Thank you. I'm just starting and need all the suggestions I can get.

 

[Deezchix]

I agree with @aart . Mine also only slept in the coop, and roamed the backyard during waking hours. Then it snowed. They refused to walk on it. They stayed in the coop until the paths I shoveled for them melted enough for them to see the ground. It was a long few days, I tell you!

I understand completely. My backyard doesn't accumulate snow that deep and the pathways melt very quickly when it's sunny. But if they have to stay indoors because of a Nor'easter or something, i want them to be happy and comfortable. It's always good to have a plan b.