This is a very popular topic right now in our area as Winter temperatures are fast approaching. It is time to start making preparations to keep your flock comfortable this winter. The truth is, most chickens can adapt and survive just fine in a colder climate (They are covered in layers of insulating feathers, you know), but there are still some steps you can take to keep them warm and comfortable this winter.
1.) It’s Time to Deep Clean!
We utilize the deep litter method in the Winter months, but it is important to thoroughly clean out the coop before adding your new layers of bedding. This means removing old bedding, and scraping poo off the floor, walls, and roosts. You want a fresh, clean start so that the ammonia build up isn’t going to be too extreme and harmful.
2.) Let’s Talk About the The Deep Litter Method
After you deep clean it’s time to add your fresh layer of bedding. Straw is the preferred bedding as the hollow stems hold air and insulate better. Your first layer of bedding should be 3-6 inches deep. As the bedding gets soiled, instead of cleaning it out, add another clean layer. As weeks pass, the underlying layers will start to break down and turn into compost. This process will emit small amounts of heat throughout the Winter months. Just remember to do another thorough deep clean when Spring arrives.
3.) Prevent Drafts and Add Ventilation
This step may seem counterintuitive because drafts and ventilation may sound very similar, but let me explain the difference. A draft is a constant breeze that will chill the air in your coop. Ventilation is the small movement of air that reduces moisture and dangerous ammonia buildup. Stagnant, moist air will lead to respiratory problems and frostbite. Make sure you plug any large gaps such as rodent holes or gaps in your wood walls. Install plastic sheets or plexiglass over any large windows or over your hardwire cloth coop. Ventilation should be added near the top of the coop (above your chickens’ heads) or along the edges of the roof so fumes and moisture can seep out but will not blow cold air on your chickens.
4.) Keep Their Water Thawed!
If you have electricity in your coop you can always purchase a Heated Poultry Waterer
5.) Prevent Frostbite
We do not heat our coop as there is no electricity, but it is also a major fire hazard. Not to mention, supplementing heat will prevent your chickens from being able to regulate their own body temperature and they will not be prepared if you suddenly loose power and cannot provide them heat anymore. You can use a Ceramic Heater on nights where the temperatures drop drastically (I’m talking below 0 degrees Fahrenheit).
Chickens’ toes are susceptible to frostbite so you must provide proper roosting bars so they can cover their feet with their body feathers from above. Roosts should be approximately 4 inches wide to allow them to roost comfortably and protect their feet.
Chickens’ combs are also susceptible to frostbite. Proper coop ventilation will help cut down on the moisture in the air (Moisture increases the risk of frostbite). As an extra precaution you can cover their combs with Petroleum Jelly
And always remember to keep your first aid kit on hand! Cold weather can exasperate an underlying disease or infection so always be prepared to step in if any of your birds don’t look well.
