Our new pullets have been braving the cold weather and snowy days quite well. In taking care of our not-yet-laying hens, I’ve learned a few things about winter care for a small backyard poultry flock. These tips are for adult birds; any very young birds will likely need to be moved indoors to a heat-lamp-warmed cage in a barn stall or basement, during the coldest months

Increased vigilance is important in the winter as natural predators are hungrier and severe weather can cost frostbite on chickens’ combs and wattles (the red flaps hanging down from their faces).

In fact, in harsh climates, the combs and wattles are removed when chickens are young specifically to avoid frostbite in winter.

When keeping chickens through the winter, don’t forget that:

• They need extra feed for increased energy needs. Also, there are few or no insects to supplement the grain.
• A good chicken coop is important — one with insulation, roosting bars and covered openings, such as fabric or plastic sheets over chicken entrances, is ideal. In northern climates, a source of heat is important during the coldest weeks.
• Make sure the birds have water … not ice. When it’s especially bitter out, I crack and remove the ice in their water tray and replace it with lukewarm water a couple times a day. A heated chicken waterer would be ideal, and I’m planning to invest in one for next winter.

Do you have a backyard chicken flock? How are you keeping them healthy and happy through the winter??