- Jul 16, 2011
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As the nights start to get cooler and longer, this newbie to the chicken world is wondering what you do to winterize your coops. We are in S. Ontario, so not too terribly cold, but certainly below zero for long periods. And, we don't tend to get a lot of snow where we are, but last year we had more than usual.
Our coop is inside a barn, with one south-facing outside wall. There is a run adjacent to that wall, which I have thought about putting straw bales around, so that the girls could stretch their legs on less cold days. The straw bales would serve to prevent snow drifts accumulating in the run, and to cut wind when the girls are out there. I have read about putting wider roosts in the coop for winter, which makes a lot of sense. We also plan on putting a heatlamp in the coop, and using as necessary.
What are some other tips for winter weather chicken management?
Thanks!
Our coop is inside a barn, with one south-facing outside wall. There is a run adjacent to that wall, which I have thought about putting straw bales around, so that the girls could stretch their legs on less cold days. The straw bales would serve to prevent snow drifts accumulating in the run, and to cut wind when the girls are out there. I have read about putting wider roosts in the coop for winter, which makes a lot of sense. We also plan on putting a heatlamp in the coop, and using as necessary.
What are some other tips for winter weather chicken management?
Thanks!