For backyard chicken owners, winter can be a challenging time. Cold temperatures and snow can make it difficult to keep chickens healthy and happy.
One of the best ways to ensure your feathered friends are comfortable during winter is by covering their run. This simple step will offer protection against the elements and create a more comfortable living space for your birds.
The Importance of Covering Chicken Run for Winter
Winter weather poses a variety of threats to chickens. Cold temperatures can lead to frostbite, respiratory issues, and decreased egg production.
Wet conditions caused by snow or rain can result in muddy areas that make it difficult for chickens to move around and increases the risk of disease. Plus, predators such as foxes or raccoons may be more active during winter months, putting your birds at greater risk.
Covering your chicken run during winter has numerous benefits. For one, it will provide shelter from wind, rain, snow or hail; this keeps the area dry so you don’t have mud everywhere that could increase the chances of bacteria growth or disease transmission among your birds. Additionally, covered runs provide an extra layer of insulation that helps keep chickens warm in colder climates without exposing them directly to cold air currents that may cause respiratory problems; this may also help chickens conserve body heat and energy while reducing stress levels.
Materials Needed
Tarp or Plastic Sheeting
One of the most important materials you’ll need for covering your chicken run is a tarp or plastic sheeting. These will be used to create a barrier between your chickens and the elements.
When shopping for tarps, be sure to choose a heavy-duty option that can withstand harsh weather conditions such as wind, snow, and rain. You’ll also want to make sure that it’s large enough to cover your entire chicken run with some excess on the sides.
Bungee Cords or Rope
To secure your tarp or plastic sheeting in place, you’ll need bungee cords or rope. Bungee cords are an easy option because they come with hooks on each end that can be attached to eyelets on the tarp. Just make sure you buy cords that are long enough to wrap around your chicken run and still have enough length left over for securing them in place.
If you choose rope instead of bungee cords, opt for a strong and durable type such as nylon. You’ll also want to get sufficient length so you have enough slack to tie them securely around the chicken run.
Scissors or Utility Knife
You will need scissors or a utility knife (like an X-acto knife) when cutting tarp or plastic sheeting according to the dimensions of your chicken run. Scissors are an easy option but may struggle through thicker tarp material hence why i recommend using an X-acto knife if necessary. Now it’s time to gather these materials and begin creating a warm space for your feathered friends!
Steps to Cover Chicken Run
Measure the Dimensions of the Chicken Run
Before covering your chicken run, it is important to measure the dimensions of the area you will be covering. This will help you determine how much tarp or plastic sheeting you will need.
Measure the length, width, and height of your chicken run with a measuring tape or yardstick. Make sure to add a few extra inches to each dimension to ensure complete coverage.
Cut Tarp or Plastic Sheeting to Size
Once you have measured the dimensions of your chicken run, it is time to cut the tarp or plastic sheeting to size. Use a pair of scissors or utility knife to cut the material according to your measurements. Make sure that your cuts are as straight as possible and that there are no jagged edges.
Secure Tarp with Bungee Cords or Rope
After cutting your tarp or plastic sheeting, it’s time to secure it over your chicken run! You can use bungee cords or rope for this part – whichever you prefer.
Start by draping the tarp over the top of your chicken run so that it covers all sides evenly. Then, attach one end of a bungee cord (or rope) at one corner and stretch it across diagonally until you reach another corner on the opposite side.
Repeat this process for each corner until all sides are secured tightly. By following these simple steps, you can successfully cover your chicken run for winter!
Additional Tips for Winterizing Chicken Run
While covering the chicken run is an important step in keeping your chickens safe during the winter months, there are a few additional things you can do to ensure they stay warm and healthy.
Add Extra Bedding for Insulation
One of the easiest ways to keep your chickens warm is by providing them with extra bedding. This can be anything from straw or hay to shredded newspaper or wood shavings.
The extra insulation will help keep their feet warm and prevent them from losing body heat through their feet. Make sure to replace the bedding as needed, as it will become damp with moisture from droppings and water spills.
Provide Heat Source Such as a Heat Lamp
If your chicken coop doesn’t have a built-in heat source, consider providing one in the form of a heat lamp. Place it in a safe location and make sure it’s not too close to any flammable materials such as bedding or straw. While this will help keep your chickens warm, be aware that heat lamps are also fire hazards if not used properly.
Keep Water From Freezing
During cold winter months, water can quickly freeze over leaving your chickens without a source for hydration. If you’re using a traditional water dispenser, consider upgrading to one specifically designed for winter use that includes heating elements or insulation.
If upgrading isn’t an option, check on your water source multiple times a day and break up ice so they always have access to fresh water. Taking these additional steps along with covering the chicken run for winter will help ensure that your feathered friends stay healthy and happy even in extremely cold conditions.
Potential Hazards to Avoid
Although covering a chicken run during winter is a great way to keep the chickens warm and healthy, it is important to be aware of potential hazards that can arise from doing so. Here are some things to watch out for:
Fire Hazards from Heat Lamps
While it may seem like a great idea to provide your chickens with a heat lamp during the cold winter months, it is important to remember that these lamps can pose a serious fire hazard if they are not used properly. Make sure that the lamp is securely fastened and placed in an area where there is no bedding or other flammable materials nearby. Also, ensure that the lamp you use is rated for outdoor use.
Overcrowding in Covered Area
Another potential hazard of covering a chicken run for winter is overcrowding. If there are too many chickens in one covered area, this can lead to issues with ventilation and air quality, which can cause respiratory problems for your birds. Make sure that you provide enough space for each bird and that the covered area isn’t too small or cramped.
While covering your chicken run during winter comes with many benefits, it’s important to be aware of potential hazards as well. By taking steps to avoid these hazards you can ensure the safety and health of your flock throughout the colder months of the year.
Conclusion
Covering your chicken run during the winter has numerous benefits. A covered area protects your chickens from harsh weather conditions such as snow, rain or wind, ensuring their health and overall well-being.
Additionally, it minimizes the risk of respiratory infections due to dampness and low temperatures. By following the simple steps outlined earlier in this article, you can easily build a covered area for your chickens using materials such as tarp or plastic sheeting.
Remember to avoid overcrowding the area and provide adequate insulation, warmth and water supply to ensure that your flocks stay happy and healthy throughout the cold months. Overall, providing a warm shelter for your feathered friends during winter is crucial.
Not only does it minimize illnesses but also ensures that they are comfortable and protected from extreme weather conditions. With these tips in mind, you can give your chickens a cozy home even in the coldest months of the year!
