wintering the flock

[mlouski]

I have 3 golden comets and want to start thinking ahead about how to winter them...the coop i have two tiered. The bottom where they can be on the ground is all screen. The top is solid wood on 3 sides but in the front there is a screen. The floor of the top section is also solid. Great for summer but I'm wondering about winter. They are in a spot where they will be protected from the wind, but I'm trying to come up with ideas for the screen area. I can't leave them in the dark but if i cover the screen that's what would happen. BTW, I live in Ohio...cold winters. thanks.

 

[mountainchick5]

I covered windows I have with plexiglass. There's still ventilation at the top of the coop. I went to ACE hardware and they cut it to size. You can screw it on for the winter and take it off in the summer. They'll still have light, but it will help block the wind and snow. Post a pic of the coop. Love to see it!

 

[Mahonri]

I CAN'T WAIT TO WINTER MY FLOCK! Bring it on!

Winter here means EGGS!

 

[CityChook]

from MN.

Can you post a photo of your coop? That would help.

I would cover the screen with THICK plexi. Make sure you have adequate ventilation otherwise. If you want the chickens to use their run, you'll probably need to cover it, but make sure the cover is strong enough to hold snow load. As for my girls, even with the covered run and all day access, they prefer to stay inside.