Winter is coming!!

[cwall]

Hello, this will be my first winter with my birds. They are 6 months old now, and winter is just around the corner. What do I do about keeping them warm? Do I heat the coop? Or do I just heat the water and not worry about the coop temp? Not sure what to do here. Please help...

 

[yogifink]

Take a look here.

You will find your questions have different answers from different folks based on their own personal experiences. I would advise looking at the above thread and determining what you think is best for your girls, as there is really no definitive answer.

 

[JackE]

There is a definitive answer. Provide the birds with a well ventilated, dry coop. Do not add any artificial heat, as the chickens are well equipped to handle the cold. They really don't need any help from you to keep warm.DONOT box them up in a airtight box in some misguided attempt to "Keep them warm" You do that, and you will lose some birds.
It is a good idea to get, buy, or make something to keep the water unfrozen. You can do a search, and see all kinds of ideas for that.

 

[chfite]

I use a bird bath heater to great success. http://www.bestnest.com/bestnest/RTProduct.asp?SKU=API-BDT250&src=shopzilla&kw=API-BDT250

It is bullet proof. I put it in the supply bucket and leave it all season. It turns on and off by the change of temperature in the water. It is available many places. Some use flower pots and light bulbs or glass aquarium heaters, but this seems more durable.

Chris

 

[xossamito]

use a bird bath heater it's the best.