When to move outside?

[dangerouschicken]

My chicks are nearing 5 weeks old. They are feathering out well, and certainly can fly! The nights here are still in the 40's. Is it okay to put them into the coop outside?

Also, how long before you can tell if they are a rooster or hen? I have Easter Egger banties.

Thanks!

 

[kstaven]

40 is still a little low for chicks that young. If you can provide a heat lamp for them then they can be moved out. If it is a good sized group you can do it when the nights stay around 50 without supplimental heat.

 

[dangerouschicken]

Thanks for the info. I can run a heat lamp to them. It will be a looooooooong extension cord, but it will do.

Another question, will they know to go into the coop at night, or will they need coaching? They have a run and I'm not free ranging them.

 

[allen wranch]

They may need some coaching to go inside. When it gets dark outside, it is usually darker inside the coop and looks scary to them. A night light sometimes helps, but you will probably have to place them inside the coop the first few nights