What time of year to start chicks in a cold climate?

[sumu]

I live in lower Michigan (zone 4) and have everything ready for 4 backyard layers. Assuming I start in September-October with day old chicks for several weeks in a brooder, when will it be OK to put them in an outdoor coop? I will be getting a cold hardy breed of course.

 

[kdwag]

I too just got 4 chicks last tuesday. i live near port clinton/sandusky, ohio and have the same questions. i'm hoping for a mild fall. i've determined it will be when they outgrow the brooder-- which after reading other's posts could be around 4 - 5 weeks old.

 

[sumu]

That's basically what I was thinking. If there's a cold snap, I will protect them of course. I have the coop against the house, so I can always run electricity for heat.

 

[Fred's Hens]

I'd not wait any longer. You need chicks TODAY. I got some chicks from Townline in Zeeland, a couple of years ago, in mid September and they were just fine. Still, entering cold December as 9 week old birds? They'll do just fine as they are all feathered out and young, vibrant and active. But.... if you cannot get them before the end of the month? I'd really recommend waiting until early March. Enjoy!!!

 

[Right On Reds]

I have four chicks sitting under a hen which had gone broody and who is now a very happy mamma. Two of the chicks are about five weeks, two are three weeks. Right now, at dusk here in NYC, they are under her.

I too wonder if they will be okay. I hear it's going down to the high 50's tomorrow nite.

 

[Fred's Hens]

I have four chicks sitting under a hen which had gone broody and who is now a very happy mamma. Two of the chicks are about five weeks, two are three weeks. Right now, at dusk here in NYC, they are under her.

I too wonder if they will be okay. I hear it's going down to the high 50's tomorrow nite.

They will be just fine. LOL

Those of us who live way up north, do not think high 50's is very cold. We have lows like that in July. LOL
Seriously though, understand your concern, but the hen has tremendous body heat and she can easily keep them warm at 58F. No worries.

 

[Right On Reds]

Thank you! I feel much better now. I know I got the chicks in the nick of time but I can't help being paranoid!

God bless a good hen~

 

[theemon]

im getting some chicks this cooming week, i live in ohio...

 

[kdwag]

Hey, you have a GSP? We live in northern ohio and also have a GSP who would like nothing more than to have the chicks for dinner . He points them frequently......I seriously doubt they will ever live in harmony.

 

[sumu]

LOL - the 50s are hardly what I call very cold for chickens. I was thinking more of the teens or single digits, but I understand your concern. Well, be that as it may, I will not let them freeze. Yours will be fine.

Thanks!