Chickens do far better in the cold than you might imagine, but there are still a few simple things you can do to winterize your chicken coop and make it more comfortable for your flock
As the temperatures drop below freezing, a few modifications to your coop will help it stay warmer through the winter months (and no, I'm not talking about adding heat!)
Heating your coop is a bad idea. First of all, any type of electricity in a chicken coop is a potential fire hazard. Mice chew on wires, and that can lead to disaster. Heat lamps, dry bedding and flapping chickens are also a recipe for disaster.
But there are a few simple SAFE ways to winterize your chicken coop to make it more comfortable for your flock when the mercury drops.
How to Winterize Your Chicken Coop
Move the Feed and Water Outside (if you haven't already)
Chickens can't see well in the dark and therefore don't eat or drink at night, so there's no need to leave any feed or water inside the coop for them any time of the year.
Especially in the winter, it's a good idea to feed outside. Feed in the coop will attract rodents, demand more frequent coop cleanings (NO fun in the ice and snow) and water will just freeze overnight anyway, so you'll have to refill the water each morning regardless.
I never leave feed or water inside my coop - summer or winter. It makes a mess in the coop which means you have to clean your coop more often and that definitely isn't any fun in the winter.
If my chickens want their breakfast, they have to come outside to eat it. This ensures they're getting some fresh air, sunlight and exercise, plus it keeps the coop cleaner, rodent free and the moisture level lower - all of which are important. Especially in the cold weather.
Be Sure there's Enough Ventilation
The most important thing in the winter is that your coop stays dry and draft-free. That means closing any windows or vents at roost level or lower.
But a common mistake is thinking that your coop needs to be buttoned up completely.
You still need ventilation and good cross air flow. Adequate ventilation is critical for allowing ammonia fumes in the chicken manure to escape - and also to prevent frostbite.
Frostbite is partially caused by damp conditions, so having adequate ventilation to allow any moisture your chickens emit at night when they breathe can help to prevent itIf you're seeing condensation on the inside of the windows, you need more ventilation - but be sure it's up high.
Any open vents need to be well above your chickens' heads when they are sleeping. Vents up under the eaves are a good way to keep the air flowing without creating a cold draft.
Provide Nice Wide Roosting Bars
Block the Windows
Add Lots of Straw
Add Drapes to your Chicken Pop Door
