When they are fully feathered (even under their wings), usually around 8 weeks of age. Or, you could put them in the coop WITH a heat lamp, earlier..... just remember to secure that lamp with TWO methods of holding it up safely away from bedding, and the chicks have space to get away from it if they are too warm.
I've been reading as soon as they have their feathers, at around 6-8 weeks. I'll be putting mine out at 5 weeks, with some supplemental heat as it does get a wee bit chilly here at night still. But, I'm no expert...
Mine grow up in the coop. At two or three weeks I found them sleeping in the farthest place from the heat lamp they could get, so I turned it off. Turned it back on at night for a couple of cool nights, then off for good.
If your coop can offer everything you would offer them if kept in the house, just put them out in their coop from day one.
Quote: I've never had chicks in my house, except for a short period of time in the incubator (and Rowdy, the special needs chick). Never plan to either.
