/ Register

  1. If this is your first time on BYC, we suggest you start with one of these three options:
    Raising Chickens Chicken Coops Join BYC
    Not a member yet? join BYC here & then introduce yourself in our community forum here.

Winter /moving tips

Discussion in 'Managing Your Flock' started by cmlew99, Nov 19, 2014.

Most Liked Posts
  1. Nov 19, 2014 #1
    cmlew99

    cmlew99 Chirping

    329
    15
    98
    Apr 5, 2014
    Massachusetts
    I have a makeshift, pretty primitive, wooden A Frame coop that I've been using for my flock of four. Here in New England, it's been pretty cold- about 19 degrees tonight!

    Every day I open the roof of the coop and prop it open, letting the chickens out. I found a frozen egg this morning! I'm worried about them. Is it too cold? My father is trying to finish the bigger, insulated coop in the next week or so. We have a water heater we keep outside for during the day. I'm just wondering if there is anything I can do to keep them warmer? Should I leave the roof shut during the day? Should I put Vaseline on combs? Are they going to be okay in this freezing weather at night? They sort of huddle in the corner, my rooster usually covering the girls with his feathers.

    Also, if you have any tips on how to transfer my huge rooster and his hens over to the new coop, that would be greatly appreciated. :) I have a super skittish, runaway hen that I'm nervous about escaping during the move as well.

    Thanks!
     
  2. Nov 19, 2014 #2
    jtn42248

    jtn42248 Crowing

    3,197
    2,472
    307
    Dec 27, 2013
    In the quiet of West Central Texas North of Colema
    You might try putting a blanket or a moving quilt over their current coop to help hold in body heat. Just be sure that there is air circulation and ventilation. Vaseline on the comb can help the chicken to insulate the comb. I have never done it but many people on BYC have recommended it as one solution.

    Is the old coop at least near the new coop? If so the move should be a little easier. You also might try making the move to the new coop in the evening while they are sleeping/resting. Once you have them in the new coop keep them restricted to it and its run for a few days so that they learn that it is their new home.

    Good luck on the move, it is never easy but it is doable.
     
    1 person likes this.

BackYard Chickens is proudly sponsored by: