how to get chickens back in coop at night

3 min read 24-01-2025

how to get chickens back in coop at night

Getting your chickens safely tucked into their coop at night is crucial for their protection from predators. But sometimes, hens have other ideas. This guide offers various strategies to help you coax your flock back home, ensuring their safety and your peace of mind.

Understanding Why Chickens Don't Come In

Before diving into solutions, let's understand why chickens might resist returning to the coop:

Fear: A frightened chicken might hesitate to enter if they've had a negative experience (e.g., a predator scare).
Distraction: Delicious bugs, a dust bath, or a particularly appealing patch of grass can easily divert their attention.
Routine disruption: Changes in routine can confuse chickens. A sudden shift in their feeding schedule or a noisy event might make them hesitant.
Coop issues: A dirty, cramped, or uncomfortable coop won't encourage chickens to enter willingly.
Aging or illness: Older hens or those with mobility issues might struggle to enter the coop easily.

How to Entice Chickens into the Coop

Here's a breakdown of effective techniques, starting with the gentlest and progressing to more assertive methods:

1. The Gentle Approach: Evening Routine & Enticing Treats

Establish a consistent routine: Chickens thrive on routine. Feed them their evening meal at the same time each day, near the coop entrance. This creates a positive association with the coop.
Use enticing treats: Sprinkle some chicken feed or their favorite treats (mealworms are always a hit!) near the coop entrance to lure them closer.
Call them in: Use a gentle, repetitive call or whistle to signal it's bedtime. Chickens can learn to associate this sound with going into the coop.
Provide a comfortable coop: Ensure the coop is clean, well-ventilated, and free of any potential dangers. A comfortable roosting area is essential.

2. A Little More Assertive: Lights and Sounds

Use a light: A small light inside the coop can make it more inviting and visible, especially during darker evenings.
Play calming sounds: Some chicken keepers use calming music or nature sounds to relax their flock and encourage them to enter the coop.

3. The More Direct Approach: Gentle Herding

Physical Guidance: If all else fails, gently guide them towards the coop entrance using your hands or a broom. Avoid chasing or frightening them.
Blocking escape routes: Temporarily block off areas where they tend to wander so they have fewer options.

4. Addressing Underlying Issues: Coop Check and Health Check

Inspect the Coop: Thoroughly examine the coop for any potential problems. Check for predators, pests, broken parts, or uncomfortable conditions that might deter your chickens.
Check for Illness or Injury: If one or more chickens consistently resist entering the coop, check for signs of illness or injury that might be making it difficult for them to move or get inside.

5. The Last Resort: Coop Confinement (Use Cautiously!)

Temporary Confinement: As a last resort, and only for a short time, consider confining your chickens to the coop area for a night or two to re-establish their bedtime routine. Ensure they have plenty of water and food. This is only recommended if other methods fail, and should be used with caution to avoid stressing the birds.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What if a chicken is still outside after dark?

A: If a chicken remains outside after dark, carefully search for it using a flashlight. Check for any injuries or signs of distress. If you can't find it, secure the coop for the night and check again in the morning.

Q: My chickens are free-ranging. How can I ensure they come in at night?

A: Start by establishing a strong routine and using enticing treats. Gradually reduce their free-ranging time as the days get shorter and colder. Consider using a secure run during dusk and dawn to encourage them into the coop.

Q: My chickens are scared of something. What should I do?

A: Identify the source of fear. This could be a predator, a noisy appliance, or even a sudden change in their environment. Work on removing the threat or helping your hens become less fearful through gentle reassurance and routine.

Getting your chickens into the coop reliably takes patience and understanding. By systematically trying these methods, you'll find a solution that works best for your flock, ensuring their safety and providing you with peace of mind. Remember to always prioritize gentle handling and consider the individual needs of your hens.