[azakeen1980]

wendyg, Yes i leave open all the time and they are fine. My coop is well sheltered though. Joyfull, do these automatic pop holes run on electric or battery because as most people who keep chickens at their allotment do not have the option of electricity? Would def use if kept at home though. 

[joyfull]

here is a battery operated one:-

http://www.flytesofancy.co.uk/chickenhouses/Auto_Chicken_House_Door_Opener.html

[ehs284]

HF's closer will work on a battery (it's 12V) but you need to make sure that it's always charged. Our version is OK on a solar panel in midsummer today  Your original question - can you share with a friend or neighbour. We don't have the same problem, but leaving for work at 5 means they are only let out into the protected run. A neighbour lets them into the field. People love chooks and like to help. A few eggs helps of course, but our biggest problem is that the chooks get too many treats. Perhaps ask around to see if there's anyone with similar interests and constraints.