what's too cold for a single hen?

[renochick]

I'm brand new to BYC. We bought 2 Buff Orpingtons 3 weeks ago. Sadly, one flew over the fence and was killed by our neighbors dogs 2 days ago. We've been frantically remedying our fence problem and searching for a coop-ready friend for her, but won't be able to get the new chicken for 4 more days. Our overnight temps for the next 2 nights are in the low 20's. Our hen is in a draft free uninsulated coop, but will she stay warm enough by herself?

As a side note, the only chickens we've found for sale that are old enough are Golden Comets & they are 5 months old. Any advice on this breed? Also, I've read to quarantine new chickens, but my Buff Orpington is soooo lonely so I don't think a long quarantine is an option.

Someone else did offer to sell a 2 year old Orpington/RIR mix, but since we are just starting out and will only have 4 or 5 total, we wanted younger chickens. I'm open to advice though if this sounds better.

 

[LindsayB]

Is there any way you could put a heat lamp inside for her? I would do that just to make sure...Or I would bring her inside, but thats just me. Sorry to hear about the other one, she definitely needs a friend though. Chickens are very social and she is probably lonely. Golden comets (red sex links) are prolific brown egg layers. I've had a few and they are great, very friendly too. I would try to stick with 3 chickens next time, that way if something happens to one the others are not left alone.

 

[renochick]

Thanks for the info. I think I'll bring her doghouse coop in the garage.

 

[Fred's Hens]

She'd be just fine. Oh gosh, mid 20's isn't cold for her.

What isn't so fine is her loneliness, of course. Chickens like three-somes at minimum. It is about the lowest number of social constructs that make up their societies.

I'm so very sorry for your loss.

A golden comet is different, but they'd make a fine choice. Excellent layer. Very friendly and very social, if sometimes a bit "concerned" over their right to feed.

 

[LindsayB]

I guess I didn't pay attention...I though she was 3 weeks old....

I don't think 3 weeks old can fly over a fence..LOL sorry!!! she'll be fine outside...