Can I leave the hatch open?

[Noodle]

did you try leaving it open, then part open, then a little less open, so they get the idea?

No I didn't, it's pretty heavy though so can't see it working. THey don't show any interest in touching it even when I shake their food outside and they're inside!

I think that mine may be left open as the run is (almost certainly) foxproof. I've watched the foxes out of the window trying to figure out a way in! They haven't managed yet so fingers crossed.

A friend of mine lets her hens free range over 2 acres and most don't use the nice cosy hen houses her hubby built, they nest in trees, even when it snows, she says she keeps expecting to be hit on the head by a frozen chicken in the mornings!!

[Hilary B]

Chickens that are well fed and have become gradually acclimatised should be fine with an 'open door' in respect of the weather. If they can't stray into fox-danger (and he can't get to them) they are tough beasties. One exception I would make is if you get ex-bats in autumn. If they have just come from a heated battery house they won't be acclimatised to cool outdoor weather, and should be shut in for the coldest part of the nights for their first winter. "When I get home from work" should be fine, and letting them out 'as convenient' in the morning.

[T-lady]

Thanks Hilary, that answers my worry about working horrid hours (shame I can't tell work that I have to leave early all winter to put the chickens to bed!)

[Hashette]

Thanks Hilary, you've just answered was one of my main concerns too

T-lady, if you get that one past your boss, do you want to have a go at explaining it to mine?

[T-lady]

Hashette - I'll keep you posted but I'm not holding out much hope for success!