Pike County Cooperative Extension reminds chicken flock owners to prepare for cold weather
The Pike County Cooperative Extension office would like to remind backyard chicken flock owner that they need to prepare for the wave of extreme cold temperatures in order ensure their coops are not only warm, but well-ventilated.
Earlier this week, the National Weather Service announced ‘bitterly cold air will be in place across the Natural State early next week. Forecast highs are expected to be in the teens and 20s on Monday and Tuesday, with lows in the single digits.
Extension agents want to remind backyard flock owners to make sure they have properly prepared their coop for birds to take shelter. They recommend inspecting the coop for drafts and to make any necessary repairs. Coops should have a roosting place to keep the birds off the floor and roosts should be made of wood. Do not use any material that might retain the cold like metal and plastic because they could cause frostbite.
Remember to insulate the coop walls and put four to eight inches deep of wood shavings on the floor.
Coops also need to be well-ventilated. The air exchange helps to remove moisture from inside the coop and helps prevent the buildup of ammonia in the air. It’s recommended you build vents into the rood or have partially opened windows covered with a burlap type of material to help retain the heat.
As temperatures fall below 35 degrees, supplemental heating will be needed. It’s recommended that heat sources be placed at the height of nest boxes or on the lowest rung of the roost. One option is brooder plates or a hanging heater. Another option would be a heat lamp with a heat bulb.
Owners should observe their chickens routinely to see if the chickens are fluffing their feathers or huddling.
Owners would increase the coops water and feed supply by 25 percent during cold weather and gather eggs regularly to prevent them from freezing.
To learn more about the extension programs, contact your local Cooperative Extension Service agent.
