Would it be okay if....

[proudchickiemom]

Would it be okay if I took my 2-2 1/2 week old chicks out in their run, just for a few minutes a day? THey are getting pretty restless in their brooder, and I thought if they could scratch, and dig and peck around, and really stretch their legs, and maybe their wings a bit, it might help them to be a little more calm in the brooder after I bring them in. So are they too young for quick outdoor time?

 

[jessiduck]

I wouldn't advise it!

 

[proudchickiemom]

Really? It is a completely enclosed area, and it only be for 10 minutes, once a day. What would be my risks if I did? And when can I start to take them outside for short intervalls? Do I have to wait until they are feathered?

 

[Aschenfire]

By all means, YES! I don't know where you are located, but here in Texas, my babies were LIVING outside at 3 1/2 weeks. They will love the chance to play outside and enjoy being chickens. Believe me, they are not china...they won't break or die if you let them out for a while

 

[proudchickiemom]

Thanks! It isnt too cold here in Oregon, and when the sun is out, it is nice and warm. We have 16 chicks in one brooder and I know that they would love to have some more space.

 

[highpointfarm]

YES it is one of the best things you can do for you chicks =] They will love it.. When they start to huddle up you know it is time to take them back in =]

 

[Achickenwrangler#1]

The broody hen took hers out 3 or 4 days after hatching...she must know what she's doing.
The chicks I got from TS went out as soon as I got the fence up...now they are big enough to be outside the pen..they love it. They need the sunshine and exercise to be really healthy, not to mention all the bugs and plants to eat,
Can you think of anything as boring as life in a box? Let them live a little!

 

[proudchickiemom]

Thanks guys! I will let them out a little later, after dinner. I know they will love it, and being able to have room to roam will be good for them. I just have to say, that this website is just amazing! I cant imagine what I would be doing right now if I didnt have this resource! Getting advice from seasoned veterans makes my life so much easier, and less stressful.. I feel like its the same with with raising kids...(I have 4) if I have parenting questions, I always go to my parents, and my in-laws...who would know better than the ones who have been through it, and have first hand experience?! So again, thanks you so much!

 

[Vickilynn45]

They will love it!! I took mine out- I'm in WY- right before they turned 2 weeks and at first they were a little scared and then they went nuts. Now they hate coming back inside, but their coop and run are still being built. They'll have a blast! Like the pp said, when they get too cold they will huddle together- you'll know.

 

[7L Farm]

I brood mine from the start in their coop. They like to do the same things as the big girls. They seem to stay healthier & feather out faster.