Winter-proofing the coop and run

We have learned a lot about keeping chickens over the winter. As I've mentioned a time or two (or three), the winters here are tough. Luckily, so are my hens.

We do wrap their run in plastic so they can get out most days.

We do put fall leaves in the run on soggy days.

We do have a heat lamp in their coop.

We have a heated water container in their coop.

Oh, and a they have a pull-out couch.

Full bar, too.

Just kidding. But everyone needs help getting through the winter.

Jim wrapping the run in plastic. The scarecrow was not my idea.
It was in the back seat of my car after I leant it to my Dad for a day. Dads.

It's minus 5

But friendship knows no temperature bounds. Ayd Mill Road keeps Blanche company and keeps her warm, even in subzero wind chills.

There have been a lot of posts on our Twin Cities Chickens google group lately regarding cold weather. Favorites include:

• Check under a hen's wing to determine if they are warm enough
• Add gallon jugs of hot water inside the coop to raise the temperature
• Wrap the run in plastic to encourage them to still go outside (essential for Blanche)

I have another to add: All that food in your freezer that is no longer identifiable? Bake it on a cookie sheet and serve it up warm to your hens. You get a clean freezer and the chickens get a little warmth in their bellies.

It warms my heart that Blanche has someone. We all need somebody, right?

Blanche and friend. If anyone has a name to suggest that is better than Ayd Mill Road, please let me know.