I have just recently moved to Vermont and it snowed last week. My problem is my chickens will not come out of their coop. It's a very small coop and there isn't much room for them to move around. Should I be concerned or just leave them be?
Chickenleg:
If this is your chickens' first time in the snow then they are problably scared of this new, white, cold and fluffy stuff that has appeared out of nowhere. Just give them time and they'll get used to it.
Hi Chickenleg,
Thanks all for the advice.
By James Cuvelier (Jamesc) on Monday, December 24, 2001 - 01:34 pm:
They're just unfamiliar with snow but if you leave their door open will likely venture out. There is nothing to worry about as long as there is good ventilation. I would give them greens to pick at to keep them occupied so they don't start picking at each other.
James
By Josh on Wednesday, December 26, 2001 - 03:21 am:
By Pasha on Wednesday, December 26, 2001 - 12:12 pm:
I live in VT too, so I know what you're talking about. If you want them to come out try sprinkling some scratch feed on the snow, and then put down a little hay or some wood shavings. My chickens actually fly from the door of their coop and land on whatever is available. Eventually they overcome their fear, but I find they never really like getting their feet wet and cold. If I put their "goodie bowl" out with fruit, veggies, pasta or rice in it, they will manage to get to it - sometimes flying out and landing in it. They are very funny.
By Chickenleg on Thursday, December 27, 2001 - 09:19 am:
Pasha where in VT do you live? How large is your coop? My coop is very small (converted doghouse)and I'm concerned because it doesn't seem healthy for them to stay in there all day. I will try putting hay down and enticing them with some "goodies".