One of the reasons Rhode Island Reds have become such a popular breed is because they continue to lay all year, and even lay when the weather outside is cold. However, that doesn’t mean that they thrive in cold temperatures. If you’re considering keeping them in a chillier climate, there are some important things to plan for.
Do Rhode Island Reds Need Heat In Winter?
Rhode Island Reds tend to prefer warmer temperatures, but they can handle pretty frigid weather if given adequate protection. These birds generally have thick, fluffy down feathers that help insulate their bodies and keep them warm. Rhode Island Reds are a cold hardy breed which can generally withstand below-freezing temperatures without too much trouble at all.
Factors That Contribute To Cold Tolerance
Staying Dry and Out of The Wind
One of the biggest factors in their cold tolerance is their ability to stay dry and out of the wind. If water soaks below their down feathers, they may be unable to handle even fairly mild cold. Strong wind can also ruffle their feathers enough to steal body heat.
Combs and Frostbite
Another thing to consider is the size of your bird’s comb. While most Rhode Island Red hens have fairly small combs, some hens and many roosters have large ones. Large combs do create a striking appearance, but they also can be prone to frostbite in colder temperatures.
How To Keep Your Rhode Island Reds Warm in Winter
Luckily, it isn’t too difficult to make sure your Rhode Island Reds to stay cozy during the winter.
Heat Lamps
One of the best ways is to simply make sure they have free access to a heated coop. This can be done by installing heat lamps or ceramic heaters at strategic points within the coop.
Be sure not to make things too warm, though. Chickens tend to prefer temperatures in the low- to mid-70s Fahrenheit. Cranking up the heat too much can make them just as uncomfortable as the cold does, and it can also present a fire risk if flammable bedding or materials are exposed to excessive heat.
Provide Variable Heat Coverage
Another good strategy is to create variable coverage within your coop. For a smaller coop, a single heater in one corner is often a good choice. Chickens can get close when they want to warm up but move to a cooler spot when they feel like cooling down a bit. For larger coops, multiple heaters may be necessary, but still try to create some warmer and some cooler areas.
Eliminate Drafts
In addition to the heater, check out the coop itself. Seal off any major openings or holes that can allow drafts or snow to enter. Adding a little extra insulation in the form of added straw or other bedding also helps your chickens create cozy roosts for themselves, and if you really feel like giving them a treat, you can install heated perches or heat pads.
For more information, here are more tips on how to keep a chicken coop warm during the winter.
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