raising chickens | chickens first snow

why did the chicken go into the snow?... The chicks have adjusted well to the cruel shock of winter. I wish I had my camera with me when I opened their coop and they poked their heads out of the hatch with utter confusion at the sight of their first snow. Needless to say, they were not fans. But to their credit, they still went outside.

Tom insulated the coop back in early December. It's made a huge difference for the girls. We've also lowered the coop ceiling and lights to help keep the heat a bit more centered. We went through an absolute bitter week or two of weather in December where we had to bring out the heat light for some additional warmth. We've been more fortunate of late weather-wise and the girls are loving their plowed-out coop. Beatrice and Turtle daringly escaped yesterday, but remained fenced within the snowplowed confines of the path between their coop and our house.

We were told to expect a drop-off in egg production once winter's cold sets in. We've noticed a slight decrease, but nothing major. The pattern has been three eggs one day, two the next. In the fridge, we've been maintaining a baker's dozen on a regular basis. That's really perfect for a family of four.

The girls have loved noshing on yummy treats like tomato seeds, pasta, whole wheat bread crusts, carrot tops, and popcorn. Of course, their mainstay is their meal and scratch. But we do indulge in treats a few times each week.

We started the conversation today about what we'll do come spring... will we welcome a new brood into the mix? It's looking pretty likely that we will. We've truly enjoyed raising chickens and would happily adopt another six little chicks come May. With the addition of that flock, we'll have enough eggs to easily share with family and friends.

Until then, we will keep watch that our chicks stay good and warm through the next few months. Before you now it, seedlings will be sprouting amok and the chickens will be in worm heaven. I betcha they can't wait!