Hi Nicole! Generally, the idea is to transition your chicks to the outdoor coop between 6 and 8 weeks old. At 6 weeks, chicks need steady temperatures above 65°F. If it is cooler when making the transition, let them stay in the brood a little longer. That is why it is best to begin the process of raising chicks in the spring/early summer. You will want to slowly integrate them to the coop if you have older chickens to minimize stress and conflict. Pay attention to your young chicks to see how they are adjusting. Do they need supplemental heat? Can they find their way into the coop from the outdoor run? Can they escape from the coop and become vulnerable to predators? All things to consider as you help transition your chicks to the next stage of life.
Hi Nicole! Generally, the idea is to transition your chicks to the outdoor coop between 6 and 8 weeks old. At 6 weeks, chicks need steady temperatures above 65°F. If it is cooler when making the transition, let them stay in the brood a little longer. That is why it is best to begin the process of raising chicks in the spring/early summer. You will want to slowly integrate them to the coop if you have older chickens to minimize stress and conflict. Pay attention to your young chicks to see how they are adjusting. Do they need supplemental heat? Can they find their way into the coop from the outdoor run? Can they escape from the coop and become vulnerable to predators? All things to consider as you help transition your chicks to the next stage of life.