Backyard Chickens in the Snow

Now that most people know we have chickens, the number one question we get is, "Are they okay in the cold?!" And the short answer is, "yes, they're fine".

Generally chickens are hardy little beasts, and just like other wild animals they have ways to keep themselves warm in the winter. They mainly use body heat from one another to stay warm in the coop, which is enough. We also took note to get breeds that are relatively "cold hardy". Our two Rhode Island Reds will venture out in yard with a light coating of snow, brave little girls they are. But 2 inches and above, all five of them hang out in the run and coop. Here are a few things that we're doing for the flock to help them get through the winter weather.

You can see the girls poking their heads out of the run.

1. Insulate the coop
This is something that we failed to take into account when we initially built our coop and run. We used old fencing for the sides of the coop and while it was nice and breathable in the summer, it's a little too drafty in the winter. We have plans to make some panel inserts of foam insulation for the floor of the coop and the side walls. But in the meantime I fitted and tacked up a vinyl drop cloth. This will reduce any drafts coming through. Additionally, we let the snow pile on the roof because snow is a great insulator!  Because of it's low density and air pockets between the flakes, it's kinda like fiberglass, and slows the heat from passing through. Chris also found this fact on the internet, so it must be true. Ten inches of fresh snow is approximately equal to a six-inch layer of fiberglass insulation with an insulation value of R-18. SCIENCE BITCHES!

2. Keep deep bedding
We use straw bedding and allow a couple of layers to build up. All the layers of straw and accumulated chicken poo actually help warm up the coop. A lovely thought.

Inside of the nesting boxes. Cozy, isn't it?

3. Don't let the water freeze
When the temperatures started dropping, freezing water bowls were the first obstacles that we encountered . We've kept on top of that by bringing in the water bowls nightly and refilling them to the brim in the morning. It's been snowing all day and the large galvanized water feeder stays unfrozen all day long.

4. Bedtime snacks
My father in law gave us the tip to feed the girls cracked corn before they go in the coop for the night. As they digest the food it also helps generate some heat.

5. Give them something to do
Where do you think the term, "cooped up" comes from? Chickens get a little stir crazy if they are used to roaming free and the snow keeps them from foraging. You can tie a head of cabbage (or similar veg) up in the run for them to peck at. I don't think the chickens would consider it a fun activity, but it certainly gives them something to do!

And despite all this, I still can't help but feel bad for them when I'm wrapped in blankets in the warmth of the house! I guess I shouldn't worry too much unless they start knocking on the door to come in.