[FarmerTerry]

I brought my three chick home from the feed store at about one week old. They are 9-10 weeks now, have all their feathers. The coop has about nine square feet of usable floor space. The yard is about five by 10. I'm a backyard town "farmer". I took the heat lamp away about a week ago and instead of roosting they huddle in a corner on the screen below the roosts. They use the roosts during the day. I live in the upper Willamette Vally, Oregon. Nights get into the thirties, once in a while dip below freezing for a few hours early morning. These chicks are huddled together on the screen as soon as darkness falls with temps still in the forties. What gives?

Another question: I give them bread crumbled and they go for it. I give them bread in larger pieces and they aren't interested. I don't understand.

Terry Armstrong

[Wondergirl]

Are they freezing at night? Do they get any other food besides bread?

[FarmerTerry]

The temp has not dipped below 32 (maybe not below 35) since I took the heat lamp away. As for food, they have chick starter before them at all times (and water). But they goble up crumbled bread. These are Ameraucana chickens. Thanks!

[Wondergirl]

I'd call the farm extension service for your area and talk to a chicken person. Or maybe a farm animal vet.