When they are out in the coop......

[Jolyn]

If they are old enough and it's warm enough for them to be out in the coop should i still give them light? As some of you know i put my little ones out in the coop for the first time last night. They are still in the big brooder box and i'm waiting to let them have full access tot he coop.....but do they need a light in there at night if it's not just for heat?

I just feel bad leaving them out in the pitch black of night at so young.

Thank you,
Jodie

 

[ibpboo]

They do not need a light once it is warm enough. Mine went out at 3 weeks with no light and it was even still getting into the 30's and they survived. They are now 7 1/2 weeks.

 

[speckledhen]

I always leave a nightlight on in my coops anyway. It doesn't cost to keep it burning really and if they need to jump down, they aren't completely blind.

 

[lil' Okie]

I know how you feel, mine were about 3 weeks old when I put them out in the coop, and when I knew they didn't need the heat lamp anymore I tried turning it off one night and everyone went crazy, chirping away so I flicked it back on and instant silence. So I went and bought a cheap nightlight that has a sensor on it so it comes on when it starts getting dark. That way I don't feel so bad and its still dark enough that they get the idea its time to roost