Winter question

[ChickenToes]

OK, I know winter is several months away, but I have a question.

How many of you incubate eggs or order chicks all year long, regardless of season? I was thinking about incubating some eggs to build up my flock, but my hens won't start laying until September. Is that too late in the year? Will the chicks freeze if I put them in the coop at 5 weeks old with the temperatures in the 40s?

 

[silkiechicken]

If you can keep them warm, you can raise chicks year round. I'd wait a few months before hatching pullet eggs though as if the eggs are too small the hatchlings can be stunted.

 

[AK-Bird-brain]

We allowed a broody banty to hatch a couple eggs last November. Outside temps were 20-30F. If you can keep the babies warm enough it can be done. That being said Plan ahead where they will live until its warm enough to venture outside. My garage became a brooder for 3 months.