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I wouldn't ever lock them out of their coop. I actually find it kind of cute and amusing that they enjoy spending so much time in there, but I don't want them to be afraid of their run or be bored. Perhaps I'll try a combo of more enrichment and work on switching out their wind block when I get...

Are they not afraid of the shade fabric? I'd be concerned it wouldn't provide enough wind block and wouldn't allow light through. I was considering upgrading to clear PVC panels this year but we already had the giant roll of plastic sheeting.

I don't think it's a predator issue. This is a daily occurrence and I haven't seen any tracks in the snow. They're pretty protected from aerial predators in their run and most hawks have also migrated out of our region by now. Perhaps it's just a boredom issue and we can find some more ways to...

I'm tempted to give them some straw. I've been hesitant in the past because I've heard straw can cause impacted crops. Is that not something I should really worry about?

Last year we had some frostbite issues on our rooster's comb so we went taller with the wind break this year. They are definitely spooked by it when I move the one side that can be rolled back but as long as it's not moving they seem fine about it. When it's in place it's pretty taught and...

Their nest boxes are in there but I've had them covered with a board for a couple of weeks since they're not currently laying and I had one hen who was trying to sleep in there. They have a treat toy (peanut butter jar with holes drilled in it) that they like pecking at. Once they're full though...

Asking more because I'm curious then concerned. We've had our 6 chickens (5 hens and 1 rooster) for almost 2 years now. This is their second winter (we live in Vermont and have pretty cold winters). Last winter they spent a considerable amount of time out in their run. This winter they are...