Winter Ventilation

[gltrap54]

I know there's been a great deal of discussion on coop ventilation, but I need help....... My coop is built to BYC standards, well insulated,vented, etc. It' 6'H x 8'W x 6' D. I live in NE Kansas. My question: On the coldest nights (below 0) is leaving a 12" x 12" roof vent & 5" x 9" gable vent open, too much air? They'll have some heat lamp.

 

[centrarchid]

In my opinion, such ventilation is fine. Also in my opinion the heat source not needed if feed intake adequate. My opinion subject to change if birds juvenile or of a breed that is very small with poorly developed body feathers.

 

[swimmer]

I left all my vents uncovered last week when we were down below zero, with no heat.

 

[Mac in Wisco]

Too much air generally isn't a problem, unless you are trying to conserve some bird heat. With a heat lamp to keep them warm anyways a high ventilation rate isn't going to effect anything. The infrared rays of the heat lamp will warm the birds regardless of the air temperature in the coop.

 

[gltrap54]

Thanks folks! Although I've raised chickens at different intervals in my 60 years, I still tend to second guess myself now that I have BYC with so many varying opinions. Growing up, my chickens barely had shelter and did just fine, so I don't know why I worry today.........