Do chickens go into the coop at dusk?

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Anonymous

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Hi there,

I have just bought a farm and I would like to keep chickens and a cockerill in the main paddock area. I work away from home all day so would need a way of the chickens getting out in the morning and back in at dusk. I have looked at special timers you can get that automatically open/close your coop door for you. I was wondering if the chickens automatically go into the coop when it starts to get dark? I am terrified of getting chickens and a fox getting them...I couldn't bear it!

Thank you
Cole
 
Hi,

Yes chickens do go into their coop (home) to roost, and at firstl light rouse themselves. I have one who settles herself in the nest box a good hour before the others decided its time to go to bed. However, given your circumstances, I would definately invest in a timer especially as you may not always be there in time to shut the door behind them.....from what I have read on here, foxes will seek out every opportunity.

I am sure a more seasoned member will be able to advise you about timers etc. I am fortunate that I am around far too much.

However, as a little extra info, last night they (5) were creating a racket at bedtime, I went to investigate only to find the "early to bed" hen, nestled on the roof, along with another. The hen who literally calls them all to bed, was carryying on something rotten. It was only then that I realised I had forgotten to open the door after cleaning it out. Needless to say they all piled in, and after a bit of a fracas, with who was going where, nestbox or perch- peace reigned. I am sure you will also find them extremely rewarding, absorbing and so very comical.

What are you thinking of getting and how many?? A paddock means chicken kingdom....

Oh and welcome to a very helfpul, informative site,

Sharron
 
Sounds like you have fun with yours!!?? :D

I love the idea of having them but only want to keep them if they are happy with it! I like the sound of the automatic door opener and will probably invest in one. Any recomendations would be great?

I havn't got a clue what type to get and where from? Is there anywhere I can rescue some from? Are there any breeds I should avoid?

Thanks for your help! Much appreciated

Cole
 
cole said:
Sounds like you have fun with yours!!?? :D

I love the idea of having them but only want to keep them if they are happy with it! I like the sound of the automatic door opener and will probably invest in one. Any recomendations would be great?

I havn't got a clue what type to get and where from? Is there anywhere I can rescue some from? Are there any breeds I should avoid?

Thanks for your help! Much appreciated

Cole
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Hi
Welcome to the forum, I do hope you will enjoy it. Rescue hens are wonderful and great characters. Where are you based. There is the BWT (Battery Welfare Trust), also local poultry farms which get rid of their girls on a regular basis.
 
Hi,

I am based near Chester/Wrexham? If you can recommend anywhere to rescue some from that would be fabulous?

Thanks

Cole
 
Hi
I am also in Chester, and have just aquired my 80th rescue hen. If you are interested in getting some send me a pm with your contact details, the poultry farm empties their "barns" on a 3 monthly basis. A friend and I try and rehome as many as we can, the "farmer" charges £2 for each hen.

Regards Sue
 
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