[gracie]

My run is totally predator proof, foot deep concrete footings and industrial mesh. I have never closed the coop door at night only locked the run door, it's just so much easier as top hen tends to get up half an hour before the others whilst the fourth one likes half an hour longer than the others.
Am I right in thinking that they will keep warm enough if I dont shut the door now it's getting colder. Their roost bars are situated so they won't get a draught. The coop walls are insulated , I guess if we hit drastic cold weather I could consider shutting them in.
As people on here say their birds roost in trees at night they must be warmer than we may think

[Lindeggs]

Personally I think the only reason to close the coop door is the predator issue.  The cold is not a problem.  In much colder climates than yours, people use open-sided "fresh air" coops with just wire mesh over one side.  They claim the chickens are happier and healthier that way.

Take a look at the Ussery and Schrider articles in the latest edition of Backyard Poultry magazine:
http://www.backyardpoultrymag.com/

[Sassy]

They don't like to be in a draught though So it depends on where your door is positioned

[Derculees]

Personally I think the only reason to close the coop door is the predator issue.  The cold is not a problem.  In much colder climates than yours, people use open-sided "fresh air" coops with just wire mesh over one side.  They claim the chickens are happier and healthier that way.

Take a look at the Ussery and Schrider articles in the latest edition of Backyard Poultry magazine:
http://www.backyardpoultrymag.com/

 Thank you Lindeggs for the link to the mag.
made for excellent reading, spent far too long reading, must get back to poop picking etc.,
(and reviewing the chooks winter quarters)

[Lewjam]

Many hens happily rooste in trees all year round...

[gracie]

Very interesting link, thank you

[Lindeggs]

Backyard Poultry Mag is very interesting... when I first discovered that site I spent hours poring over all the back-issue articles.  There's far too much to read on this Interweb gadget.