4m x 3m Omlet pen, cube, new auto door still boxed and coop light

[TPFringe]

Hi everyone.

 

I have a question for you. I understand that I will need to put my 3 new ex-batts straight into the Eglu rather than into the run when they arrive but what about giving them access to food and water? I've read that I should keep the door closed for a while so they realise where 'home' is but this could mean that they are inside for part of the day and all night. Should I put some inside for them? And if so - how should I do that as the Eglu food & water containers wont fit inside. Or - should I put them into the Eglu and leave the door open so that they can go into the run when they're ready?

 

Thanks in advance.

[ruth1]

I put mine in the cube and left them shut in for 10 mins then opened the door so they could come out into the run, which they did gradually and then they put themselves to bed no problems later that night.

 

After having spent the evening worrying about should i have left them in longer, have I done it right etc, etc They really impressed me

 

However one of the more experienced folk will be along to give you better advice soon.

[Tweety]

I have got the same problem this weekend when I collect my 4 ex batts. On the basis that I have done it with all my hens, I have decided to put them inside the hen house/eglu when they arrive but leave the door open so that they can go out when they are ready. I have not had any problems with them going to bed on the first night - so far! If they seem unsure what to do at bedtime, you can shine a torch through the eggport and they should head for the light. Good luck!

[Egg Lou]

I did the same as ruth1.. popped them in the cube with door shut for 10 minutes.. then opened door and they wondered into run.. found food and drink no problem as also knew why back in to bed.

 

Try not to worry they seem to sort themselves out very well!

 

Best of luck with your new arrivals

[TPFringe]

Thanks very much - that all sounds sensible. I didn't really like the thought of them shut in for that long. I'll let you know how it goes!