Cold Snap Logistics

Hi, everyone -- The girls were very happy and frisky this morning -- and they produced two eggs by noon! Things seem to be going well, but I'm very worried about how they will fare when the cold snap comes tomorrow. I don't know who cares for the chickens on Thursdays, but I hope you are reading the blog, because here is the scoop: I plan to cover the floor of the coop with hay this evening (the part where previously we had said no hay) to provide some extra insulation. I also plan to make sure the nesting boxes are full of hay and cozy.

I emailed Wynn, and here is her advice:

Hi - You'll need to be sure that the hens get water shortly after the sun comes up - and plenty of food.....also take a little hen scratch and sprinkle it on the floor of the coop in the morning, to rev up their engines and make sure they eat so they warm up. Then come by the coop again around 2 or so and give them some new water, as the morning water will be frozen again right away. Also, be sure your enclosed roosting area has a good four inches of straw on the floor. Try not to worry. I hope your holiday has been lovely too. Good news about the eggs, it is amazing what happens when the days start getting just a little longer. Everyone is reporting more egg activity. W.

So there you have it. Lots of food. Lots of hay. And warm water several times a day.

Sending warm thoughts, I am --

Amy