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!
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.
