[chickadee11]

Hi, I bought an Eglu Cube this summer and I have 4 chickens living in it.  They seem quite happy and I certainly am happy with it. I'm just wondering whether it's necessary to buy one of the extreme weather jackets for it.  They are £99 and I can't really afford it so would like some feedback from other cube owners if poss.
Obviously if it's necessary I'll get one.
Thanks.

[Sassy]

If you don't have a hardy breed of chooks it may be necessary and with that information other members may advise. If you have a hardy breed I cannot see why it would be necessary. In a wooden ark my chooks came through the big freeze a couple of winters ago with two nights of -18 degrees no problem. Some members have chooks that roost in trees all winter

[chickadee11]

I have 2 bluebells and 2 speckledies, not sure if these are classed as hardy or not.

[Aunt Sally]

I don't think they really needed a jacket.  All eglus are double skinned and the chooks huddle together in their built in douvettes.

I had an eglu (MkII) and did used to put an old douvette (in a polly bag) over it at night when the temperature was very sub zero.

[ghost61]

Seeing them tonight, they are cuddling up to each other before we shut the door on the eglu.  Don't worry I think most hens are very hardy.

[jacquil58]

Hi

I've had my hens housed in an Eglu since 2010 and we have had some very cold winters since then.  I get an old carpet rug and throw it over the top.  Chickens hate drafts but obviously need the ventilation.  The Eglu is great because it's got good ventilation all round and a rug just covering the top will just ensure a bit more insulation.  Mine are warrens and they are quite hardy.  Good luck.