when can i put them outide??

[lisamarie]

i am sure this has been asked a million times, but when, oh, when can i do it? my chicks are 8 weeks and we live in a mild northern california climate. can i put them out then keep light on in coop at night?

thanks!
lisa

 

[hangin'witthepeeps]

I've had my chicks outside in their new coop since they were 5 weeks old. I only have the light on at night as it's been around 40 degrees. They are now almost 7 weeks old and doing great!!!! I guess it would depend on if the place you are putting them is reasonably draft free. I have 24 in one coop and I've never found them piled up or all huddled together at night when its cold. Some will be under the light and some will be walking about.

Edited for spelling errors. lol

 

[Marbleheader]

How cold does it get at night? After 50-60 days, most chicks are fully feathered and can be outside in pretty much all weather.

I think yours can go outside without any heat or light (although, you may want light later to increase laying in the winter).

 

[lisamarie]

yay!! i can't wait to get them out of the stinky barn! i will check night temps. our coop is drafty as it is a hoop house so i think i will keep light on just to be sure.
thanks everyone!
lisa