What time is too early to open the coop door?

[ChickenCat]

We leave for work about 6:20 am, I open the pop door about 6:10,6:15. It is just getting light when we get to work at 7:00. It worries the h%^& out of me to leave that door open while it's dark. My chickens free range so whenever they're ready to come out and hit the fields, they're free to do so. I know it's also free for the critters to walk in the house between those minutes. I will be heartbroken if something does get in there, but I'm a firm believer in animals not being kept up. My dogs have a HUGE yard to stay in,(close to an acre) I will not crate my dogs. My horses are not kept in a barn, it's pasture 24/7.
I haven't lost chickens yet, opening that door before daylight. Will I lose chickens? yes, probably. then I'll slap myself silly and make a run for them to stay in til I can get home and turn them out.

 

[rainbowgardens]

I don't open my coop door until Harvey, our border collie has had a chance to patrol the yard and make his presence known.
I wouldn't get into the habit of opening it while it's still dark, or too soon after daylight. I've seen foxes in our yard in the early light, though, not since Harvey joined our family.
I know that makes it tough for those who have to work away from home.

 

[CoyoteMagic]

This is why I have an automatic door!! I don't have to worry about opening and closing it!!

 

[goldeneggtees]

Quote:
Do you have a neighbor that might be willing to let them out a little later?

 

[cicene mete]

9:00, so as not to disturb the neighbors.