Prepping for Winter

As winter approaches, it's crucial to ensure your chickens are comfortable and well-protected from the cold. Here are some steps we have taken to winterize our chicken coop, so our girls stay warm and happy throughout the chilly months.

Insulation for Coop Comfort 🏠❄️
If you feel it's necessary, insulate your coop. Reflective roof insulation is a great option, especially if your coop has a metal roof. It helps retain warmth and keeps your chickens cozy. We do this for our girls.

Draft-Proofing for a Cozy Haven 🚫❄️
Seal any large gaps or cracks in the coop that might let in drafts. This helps maintain a comfortable temperature inside the coop.

Heated Water for Hydration 💧❄️
Invest in a heated waterer to ensure your chickens have access to fresh water, even in freezing temperatures. Remember not to place the heated waterer inside the coop; it should be outside or in a well-ventilated run.

Cozy Bedding for Nestling 🛌❄️
Provide plenty of clean, dry bedding for your chickens to snuggle in. Using extra straw in the coop during winter, and adding more when temperatures drop significantly will help keep your chickens warm. We did this for our girls this past winter when it temperatures dropped below zero.

Protecting the Run 🏃‍♀️❄️
If you have a run, consider putting up a plastic barrier to shield your chickens from driving winds, snow, ice, and harsh weather. We use a clear corrugated plastic on our girls run for protection and offer this as an option with the coops we sell.

Balanced Ventilation 🌬️❄️
Maintain good airflow in the coop to prevent moisture buildup. However, ensure that there are no direct drafts on your birds, as this can lead to health issues.

Extra Roost Space for Cuddling 🐔❤️
Chickens huddle together for warmth, so provide enough roost space.

Warm Winter Treats 🍲❄️
Spoil your chickens with warm treats like oatmeal or warm water with a bit of apple cider vinegar. Corn/scratch is also an excellent choice as it makes their digestive system work harder, helping to keep them warm.

Creating Dry Areas for Free Range 🌾❄️
If your chickens free range, prepare an area with a tarp before the snow falls. After the snowfall, pull it back, and your girls will have a dry space to roam. It's a simple yet effective way to keep them comfortable.

Winterizing your chicken coop is essential to ensure your feathered friends remain happy and healthy during the colder months.

Please note that the information provided in this blog is based on general advice and best practices for winterizing chickens. Every flock is unique, and local climate conditions can vary significantly. Regulations or guidelines related to poultry care may change, so always stay informed and comply with any relevant laws or regulations in your area. The content provided here is for informational purposes only.