Minnesota Winters & Coop Ventilation

[Kjm279]

We are new to chickens and this is our first coop and first winter coming up. We plan on keeping the windows closed in the winter (though there is the option to prop them fully or slightly or to let them hang open, which gives it a little less than one inch hanging open) but have these vent holes at the top. Are these holes going to be enough to keep moisture out of the coop? For reference, we have two roosts + poop trays. One is directly under the front window (with window box), the other is behind the side window.

 

[JDN]

Looks good...

I lived in Minnesota for eight years.

Which direction does the coop face? I'd be inclined to leave the window open if its on the south side of the coop, or at least propped at 45 degrees.

 

[Kjm279]

Front window & box are north facing. Other window is east and the chicken door in the run is west. There’s no windows or doors on the south facing side (which is the back of the coop.

 

[Kjm279]

 

[Chad Oftedal]

Go Vikings!

I grew up in MN playing hockey and walleye fishing. Stil doing both to this day. I’m in WA now, and 30 degrees is cold enough - I don’t miss the cold one bit.

Anyway, I digress. This article here is referenced a lot: https://www.backyardchickens.com/ar...-there-and-cut-more-holes-in-your-coop.47774/. It should give you some really good background.

From all I’ve researched before on this site, you’re almost certainly going to need more ventilation in other areas if you plan to close off those windows. I’d check out the article and look for some additional flexible ways (i.e. adjustable vents/openings) you could add more ventilation. Then, depending on your weather, you could open/close different vents or windows accordingly.

 

[PetesChicks]

The article @Chad Oftedal linked to has some great information for you. The holes aren’t enough, you will need to leave the windows open for added air circulation. Maybe put something up as a baffle to block wind from causing a draft on the roosts. Also, if your run is totally secure, you can leave the pop door open for additional airflow.

And I have to mention, your beagle is beautiful! Mine loves my chickens, she knows that’s where her eggs come from.

 

[Cindy in PA]

I am in PA not MN, but we live in a very windy location (Breezy Corners) and I let southeast facing & south facing windows open all winter unless it gets down near 0. The vents on the Norwest & north side are closed. The NW ones are right over the roost. Moisture builds up quickly & the holes probably won't be enough.