When is it ok to take chicks outside?

[KnitswithChickens]

My chicks are almost 2 weeks old and play and flap like crazy in the brooder. I wondered if I could put them in the chicken run for a half hour or so to give them a little fun outside.

Is it too soon to do this? What are the risks at a young age? It's going to be in the high 80's all weekend so the outside temp is the same as in my brooder. Thanks

 

[RAWR]

lol they'll be fine :] just take them out and keep an eye on them

 

[jus1jack]

As long as the run has some shade & the wire mesh of the run will keep them in they will love it. I would not do it if you have older chickens in the run though. Make sure they have water too...

 

[KattyKillFish]

i take the chicks out on nice warm days when they are 4-5 days old for short periods of time. if it is a really nice day, several times a day. they MUST be supervised when they are this young. sometimes if it is a warm day but still a bit chilly i will take the heat lamp out there, too.

i like to play the part of "momma hen", showing them what is good to eat and the like

it will be good for them and in my opinion it makes them grow faster.

 

[KnitswithChickens]

thanks everyone, we'll be going outside later when the grass has dried from the morning dew. Can't wait, camera has fresh batteries!!

 

[jhfields]

Yes it's ok, just remember to supervise them when they are young. Like they said because they are young they are at danger, so if you supervise them, you will be fine.