Chicken Hatchery Australia · Backyard poultry guide
Do I need to lock my new hens in their coop for 24-hours?
New hens need time to learn where shelter, food and water are located. Start with a secure house and attached run suited to their needs. Do not lock birds in a dark, hot or poorly ventilated house simply to follow a fixed time rule. Watch their behaviour and use a gradual settling plan, including quarantine when joining an existing flock.
A settling plan, not a dark confinement rule
Give hens a safe house and attached run where they can learn the location of essentials. Account for heat, ventilation, health and predator protection. Quarantine and introductions are separate issues when you already keep birds.
