Chickens in the snow

[JakeFlyFish]

Does it hurt to allow the chickens to run in the snow? Thank much, Jake

[bluetick]

My chickens generally aren't as eager to go out in the snow as my ducks and geese, but they do eventually leave the barn to eat and drink. Even among the chickens, all buff orpingtons, some are hardier than others and will stay out longer or come up to the house looking for a treat. As long as they can easily get back inside the coop or barn, it doesn't seem there should be a problem.

There are times when the weather is horribly bitter that I keep all the birds confined, and put water and food inside for them.

[greg rountree]

They don't like to get out in the heavy snows--they would rather stay inside--but as it melts and yields pathways they get out and run around and seem to be just as happy as on any other day.Their tolerance of cold depends on feather condition--those that shed their feathers later in the year do have a ruff time dealing with cold weather--they tend to huddle in the corners where the wind can't reach them--I have brought a few inside to the basement a few times--it is obvious when they are having trouble dealing with the cold. 8) Greg

[JakeFlyFish]

Does the snow seem to hurt their feet? I was more concerned with their feet freezing if the snow is bad for them. This is my first winter with chickens and all seems well. I had 10 ( one old girl died, but she was very old ) and I get 8 eggs a day usually, or sometimes 7 but they are pretty good producers. 4 Americaunas leave me two greenish, one bluish and one pinkish eggs. It's Easter everyday here! Jake

[bluetick]

The chickens will stand on one foot with the other tucked into feathers. They will also hunker down on the snow with their feet covered by their feathers and bodies. Besides returning to the barn, the birds can get under another building or a porch to escape the snow.

To make it easier for me and my short-legged waterfowl, I usually clear a path through the snow with the snowblower and/or shovel. The chickens appreciate the easier walking too. When the paths get packed down and slippery from the web-footed traffic, I sprinkle wood ashes around to help with traction.

[flightoffancy]

Mine never wanted to go outside, i left a door open for them and one or two might wander around a bit but overall they stayed inside . I live in upstate ny where winters are brutal and snow pack is deep so that might be why. Even my ducks didnt want to go outside very often. On a related note : If you dont run a heat lamp and find your having trouble keeping the water pail unfrozen try using a regular 60 watt lightbulb in the reflector, place the reflector securely above the bucket about a foot above it, it will keep the water from freezing on all but the most fridgid days. Just be sure to do it safely such as running the cord through some fencing or clip it securely to the wall where it cant be knocked off and fall into the bucket. I finally started just using a heated bucket made for horses, much more convienent and i know it wont freeze unexpectedly.