How to Keep Chickens in the Winter

If this is your first winter with your new feathered friends, it's understandable to be worried about whether there are certain measures to take to ensure their continued health when the snow comes and the temperature drops below freezing. They may be covered in beautiful feathers, but it doesn't stop them feeling the cold - which is why these experts have devised this 'how to' guide, ensuring your chickens are happy all year long.

There are a few simple things that you as there owner can do for them so that they survive winter, and don't develop any avoidable illnesses.

Step One: Check the Coop

'Home sweet home' is a saying we commonly refer to when speaking of our own abode and like us, chickens do not like cold drafts blowing through their home. To prevent feathers being ruffled, check the coop thoroughly for any drafts and leaks. To increase your chicken's comfort we always recommend that you invest in a premade coop which is water tight, rather than trying to make one yourself. You don't need heat pumps to keep them warm, just a well-built chicken coop.

Top Tip: If you have an old piece of carpet lying around the house, cover it in plastic and secure it to the roof of your chickens' coop. This acts as extra insulation and ensures that drafts and leaks are avoided.

 

Step Two: Prevent Frostbite

Chickens are more affected by the heat than the cold, yet the one concern which plagues many chicken keepers is frostbite. To prevent your chickens from getting frostbite there are a few steps to take. The first is to add extra straw in the coop, so that your chickens have something to snuggle down into. The second is to clear out any droppings on a daily basis, so your chickens remain happy.

Top Tip: Place Vaseline on the ear tips, wattle and comb to prevent frostbite.

Step Three: Keep Checking

It's always worth keeping an eye on your chickens' body weight, a blue tinge in the wattle and comb, and their feet. These are the areas which indicate whether or not there is something wrong with your chickens.

If you need a little guidance on how to keep your chickens happy all year round then don't hesitate to get in touch with these professionals today. They are always happy to help, and they have a vast selection of chicken coops which are ideal for the upcoming winter months.