Doreen

[lucywatkins]

Hi

 

6 out of 8 of my chickens have decided that they prefer to roost in the trees at night rather than in their . They are safe because the trees are within their pen, so I am not too worried about foxy loxy, however what worries me is whether they will get cold and wet and whether this will be detrimental to their health. I haven't worried about it over the summer, but now autumn/winter is on its way, I am not sure if I should be trying to get them to sleep inside.

 

Any thoughts?

[Egluntyne]

It is what they would be doing in the wild.

 

I had a friend whose hens always roosted in trees, no matter what the weather and they seemed perfectly happy.

[alih]

a couple of mine always roost outside in the WIR rather than in the cube and they are going strong

[lucywatkins]

Thanks both, that reassuring.

[Sarah Aylesbury]

My hens roost in tge tree within their electric fened pen.they don't go in the coop. Should I provide a separate nesting box for them to lay in? 

[Beantree]

They might lay in the coop, or they may find spots they like in the enclosure, but only time will tell? It's important eggs don't get wet. If they do the 'bloom' will wash off and the storage time reduces from a couple of weeks at room temperature, to just a few days if you keep them in the fridge.

[Dr_ava_shamban]

That's a very common problem, and it can be a real challenge to get your chickens to stop roosting in trees. The best solution is to be consistent and patient.

As others have mentioned, you need to get them into the coop at dusk for a few nights in a row. It might take a little time, but they'll eventually learn that the coop is a safe and warm place to sleep. Also, make sure the roosting bars in your coop are comfortable and high enough off the ground to make them feel secure.