Should I let my chickens out when it is snow on the ground?

[AAJ]

I have 6 silkies and I want to know if I should let them out of their house when it is snow on the ground.

 

[Poultrybonkers]

I do if they go out thats their thing i dont force them out.

 

[VelvettFog]

Why wouldn't you?

 

[zrossk]

Quote:
They might get wet and cold.

 

[bobbi-j]

If you can leave the coop door open, give them the choice. They'll be fine. Mine don't like the snow when it gets too deep, so I put straw or leaves over it for them to walk on. Other peoples' chickens love the snow and go out in it with no hesitation. If they're cold, they'll go back in. If they're wet, they'll dry.

 

[brownysfp]

We had snow three mornings running this week: the first couple of times it was only light and melted quickly. The third morning it was an inch or so deep and much colder. Some of the chickens were around for last year's fall but the greater majority were experiencing it for the first time. Although all came out of their coops the woodshed proved very popular to hang out in.
If you've birds with feathered feet (we've Brahmas and Faverolles, for example) you should keep an eye on them.

 

[featherz]

I let my chickens out in snow/rain/whatever as long as it's not a ridiculous storm. They choose to go out or not. Some of the more adventurous ones will stomp around in the snow, some won't go anywhere near it. Never had a problem!

 

[Hinotori]

My birds hated the snow. They would only barely step on it to get to the big awning or the 3.5 sided shelter. The two silkie pullets didn't care as much, but they will go foraging in the rain at 36 degrees too.

 

[Mattemma]

Leave the door open. Mine just stand by the door and look out,lol. I just hope the hawk won't fly INTO the chicken shed!

I leave the door at an angle so the snow and wind doesn't hit them full force. I also added a rubber mat over the openning so it blocks some of the winter weather,but they can see and get out at the bottom. I will have to get a pic of them looking out!

 

[theoldchick]

Of course you can! Like everyone said open the door and see what happens. Then photograph the event and share the photos with us!