[Andy999]

I am keen on rearing on a few cockerals for Christmas and am considering keeping them in a large poly Tunnel.The tunnel has doors at both ends so is well ventilated, this  also allows me to keep the temperature down low.
I would be most grateful for any views or advice.I already keeps hens for eggs,but thought I could utilise the poly tunnel instead of building another enclosure.

[noshed]

I'm no expert but the foxes round our way would have a chicken festival under those circumstances.

[Andy999]

Hi noshed,luckly I dont have problems with foxes,thanks to the local gamekeeper.

[Roughlee Handled]

Hi noshed,luckly I dont have problems with foxes,thanks to the local gamekeeper.

1stly where are you going to get all these cockerels from?
2ndly there are always foxes around even thought you have a local gamekeeper.
3rdly unless you have your own gamekeeper worry about foxes.
4thly Badgers are a protected species and they can and do as much damage as a fox.
http://www.opsi.gov.uk/ACTS/acts1992/Ukpga_19920051_en_1.htm

Chickens need proper protection not plastic.

[poppies]

Hi I agree with roughlee, but our polytunnel is within the chickens enclosure so if it is secure you can use a polytunnel during autumn/winter I put bantams in mine during the winter to eat the bugs but they have a proper house inside of the tunnel  to lock them in at  night,

I would'nt just put them in the tunnel they would not be safe, as soon as a fox is shot another just moves in to take it's place, also I think it would be too cold with out a house inside

[Andy999]

Hi noshed,luckly I dont have problems with foxes,thanks to the local gamekeeper.

1stly where are you going to get all these cockerels from?
2ndly there are always foxes around even thought you have a local gamekeeper.
3rdly unless you have your own gamekeeper worry about foxes.
4thly Badgers are a protected species and they can and do as much damage as a fox.
http://www.opsi.gov.uk/ACTS/acts1992/Ukpga_19920051_en_1.htm

Chickens need proper protection not plastic.

Thanks for your reply,not sure if there was a need for your list.I am lucky that I have a good supply of cockerals.I have had chickens for many years and have never had a fox problem,and this is due to the many shooting estates that Im surrounded by.
To get back to my issue.The poly tunnel is secure and a chicken house would be placed inside for the winter to give them housing.

[Aunt Sally]

I have had chickens for many years

Then why are you asking about conditions for keeping them in