Chicks Move to the Coop

The chicks enjoyed some sunny days in their new pen last week while we worked on the final details on their new home. The coop still needs roofing shingles (donated by my father ~ Thanks Dad!) and another coat of paint, but the rest was completed, secured, and and ready for the chicks to move in.

Sunday was move in day. It was so much fun to watch them explore their new area:

I left the pop door open to the pen, but the first day they seemed content to just explore their new home and stretch their wings.

They are only 3-4 weeks old and still need some heat overnight and on cooler days. The heat lamp is securely fastened to the wall at one end. Overnight temperatures outside were in the 50s but inside stayed in the 70s, which is good for their age until they completely feather out.

I will admit that I was a little nervous for the chicks’ first night out. I placed a thermometer in the window so I can monitor the inside temperature and I kept an eye on them by using a security camera:

On Monday, they ventured down the ramp and spent the day in the pen exploring. About an hour before sundown, I watched as they all marched themselves up the ramp into the coop for the night. I think they like their new home.