Polytunnels for Chickens

Keeping your Chickens Warm in Cold Weather

The latest trend that we have noticed is that people are now moving their tomatoes etc. out of Polytunnels and moving in their chickens in once the weather gets colder. It makes sense if you think about it and it’s pure serendipity. The Polytunnel stuff is coming near to the end of it’s life and the weather is getting colder.

Keeping chickens in polytunnels during cold weather can be a great way to maintain their health and productivity. Polytunnels have a number of benefits for chickens:

• providing protection from the elements
• increased access to natural light
• the ability to regulate temperature.

Below, we will examine the benefits and challenges of keeping chickens in polytunnels during cold weather, and provide tips for maintaining a healthy and productive flock.

Elements

One of the primary benefits of keeping chickens in polytunnels during cold weather is protection from the elements. Polytunnels are designed to provide shelter from wind, rain, and snow, which can help to prevent hypothermia and other cold-related health issues in chickens. Additionally, polytunnels provide a more stable temperature environment than outdoor coops, which can help to regulate body temperature and prevent stress-related illnesses.

Another benefit of keeping chickens in polytunnels during cold weather is increased access to natural light. Polytunnels allow chickens to access natural light throughout the day, which is important for their overall health and wellbeing. Exposure to natural light can help to regulate circadian rhythms, improve immune function, and increase egg production.

                   10x7ft Polytunnel

Challenges

However, there are also some challenges associated with keeping chickens in polytunnels during cold weather. One of the biggest challenges is maintaining a consistent temperature and humidity level. If the temperature inside the polytunnel fluctuates too much, it can lead to stress-related illnesses and decreased egg production. Additionally, high humidity levels can lead to respiratory issues in chickens, which can be exacerbated by cold weather.

Precautions

To maintain a healthy and productive flock in a polytunnel during cold weather, it is important to take certain precautions. First, ensure that the polytunnel is well-insulated and sealed to prevent drafts and leaks. Use a heater or other temperature-regulating device to maintain a consistent temperature, and monitor humidity levels using a hygrometer. Additionally, provide plenty of ventilation to prevent moisture buildup and decrease the risk of respiratory issues.

20x12ft Pollytunnel

Diet

In addition to these precautions, it is also important to provide your chickens with a healthy diet and plenty of water. During cold weather, chickens may require additional calories to maintain their body temperature, so provide plenty of high-quality feed. Additionally, ensure that water sources are not frozen, and provide warm water to help prevent dehydration.

Conclusion

In conclusion, keeping chickens in polytunnels during cold weather can be a great way to maintain their health and productivity. Polytunnels provide protection from the elements, increased access to natural light, and the ability to regulate temperature and humidity levels. However, it is important to take certain precautions to maintain a healthy and productive flock, including ensuring that the polytunnel is well-insulated and sealed, using a temperature-regulating device, providing plenty of ventilation, and providing a healthy diet and plenty of water.