We’re already getting ready for winter here on the farm.

As the seasons change, the needs of your chickens will change too. We are actively changing gears from all our measures designed to keep our flock cool and beginning the string of chores that will prepare their space for the upcoming winter. In our zone 6A we had some record breaking cold temperatures and winds last winter which I hope will not be repeating themselves. Regardless, we are doing everything we can to prepare for the inevitable drop in temperatures and we are doing so early so we can get as much done as possible before it become even more difficult due to the change in the weather. Keep in mind, if you are a new flock owner or your chickens are nearing 2 years of age you will see a significant drop in egg production as the days get shorter. This is normal and natural. *I strongly disagree with using any form of artificial light to interfere with their natural egg break. Doing so puts stress on their already stressed winter bodies and can reduce their lifespan by as much as half. I implore you to allow your backyard chickens their natural winter break; it is how they were designed and what is most healthy and safe for them. Here are some of the things I’m doing to help get my flock ready for the season ahead.

1) Deep clean your coop and run. Replace old bedding and refresh as necessary to reduce dust and moisture as well as keep your chicken’s surrounding as comfortable as possible.

2) Clean water containers, food containers, toys, and perches. We don’t have a freeze-proof hose yet on the homestead so I’m starting my deep clean early to prepare for not having a water source outside. I use Dr. Bronner’s and hot water to clean all our perches and chicken accessories. Use a safe, natural cleanser for your chicken accessories never use bleach or harsh chemicals.

3) Cover your runs. If you have a run as part of your chicken set up cover the roof and sides to protect chicken’s from winter precipitation. Be sure to leave areas in the top open for proper ventilation, not draft. During cold temperatures your chickens need fresh air, but not drafty cold air blowing on them.

4) Use a heated water source. There are a variety of safe ways to heat your chicken’s water during the winter. Purchase a heated water container and use it as instructed. If you will be filling water by hand be sure to check your chicken’s water several times a day as it will freeze quickly and need to be replaced. *Do not put a heat lamp in your chicken’s coop or run, heat lamps are an extreme fire hazard. Your chicken’s feathers do a great job of keeping them warm in the winter as long as they are safe, dry, and protected from the elements. If you feel the need to include a heat source in your coop or run we have had great success with wall mounted panel heaters. If in doubt, don’t include a heat source.

5) Provide grit during the winter months. We provide grit and oyster shell supplement to our chickens year round but this is especially important in the winter when they won’t have the chance to free range as often as they do during better weather.

6) Provide a bath in their run area. When the snow is on the ground your chickens will appreciate still having access to their bath. We have large tubs filled with clean fill dirt in our run they can access year round. Access to a bath is a big part of how chickens stay healthy.

7) Feed the highest quality food that you can. Chicken nutrition is extremely important to their overall health but especially in times when weather causes their bodies additional stress. Feeding high quality feed is a great way to ensure their longevity and health.

8) Protect waddles and combs from frostbite with Vaseline. During plummeting temperatures you can help protect your chickens with large combs and waddles from frostbite by applying Vaseline. Frostbite is caused by cold temperatures and excess moisture in their coop and run. Keep bedding as dry and fresh as possible to help your chickens stay healthy.

Winter preparations may look different in your region due to your expected weather. I hope this was helpful!