Will my chicks be ok tonight?

[happyhens]

I have 10 Delaware & 6 Barred Rock cockerels, and 2 OEGB chicks in a converted dog kennel. They are about 6-8 weeks old, and have been outside without a heat lamp for the past 2 days. It has been in the 70's and upper 50's at night. Tonight it is supposed to get down to 47*F. Will they be ok without a heat lamp tonight? There is no electricity near the dog kennel coop, so a heat lamp isn't an option. I can move them back to their previous brooder but would rather not if it isn't necessary. They all look to be fully feathered. What do you think?

 

[lisahaschickens]

according to traditional wisdom, 6-8 week-olds can handle temps in the 55-65 degree range. I think 47 is a bit cold for them, but it's close. I would worry about the younger ones. It will be interesting to hear other opinions.

 

[sherrydeanne]

They will be 100% fine. Absolutely no need to worry about them. Really. My 4-5 weekers are staying out tonight and it's going to be 39 or so.

 

[chickenguysmom]

Won't they all just huddle to keep each other warm? And if it's not drafty, they won't lose body heat as quickly.

When our small coop gets cold or drafty we put a tarp over it to keep out drafts and keep heat loss to a minimum.

Hope that helps!

 

[happyhens]

Quote:
Without a heat lamp? Wow. I guess I shouldn't be worried at all then!

 

[happyhens]

They came through the night with no problems. I did put a silkie rooster in there, so he could huddle with them and help them stay warm. He is such a sweetie, he hasn't picked on them at all.

 

[sherrydeanne]

Quote:
Without a heat lamp? Wow. I guess I shouldn't be worried at all then!

Yep, I'm a mean chickie mommy

Glad yours pulled through, now you don't have to worry quite so much