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Over Wintering Chickens in Small Coop #890129

Asked November 21, 2024, 12:38 PM EST

We got 4 Orpington Chickens in the spring of this year. We are approaching some winter weather in Tennessee. They are in a small mobile coop that is fixed to a larger open-air flight pen. We have already started the winterizing process for the coop. We have added 6 mil plastic to the outside of the open-air areas leaving space for ventilation but blocking wind/rain/etc. We have also wrapped the enclosed coop with bubble wrap-style insulation (pictured), added a layer of straw bedding, and included an electric waterer. My question is: is this enough to keep them warm this winter or do they need a heat lamp too? This is our first winter with chickens and would like to know how to proceed. Any information would be appreciated. Thank you!

Cumberland County Tennessee

Expert Response

It looks like you have a really well insulated coop! As the winter progresses, just make sure you don't have humidity build-up in the pen or run. Cold chickens do just fine. Cold and damp environments are where you run into issues like frost bite and respiratory disease. 


Chickens are really good at acclimating to winter temperatures, especially heavy-bodied breeds like Orpingtons. They produce enough heat that they'll keep warm through the winter, and if they get cold, they'll huddle together for warmth. Heat lamps are not recommended with adult birds because of the fire hazard they present and because if your hens are not acclimated to the winter temperatures properly and the light goes out, it can cause a dramatic swing in temperature that can cause them to get sick.

An Ask Extension Expert Replied November 25, 2024, 10:09 AM EST

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