When Can Chicks Go Outside? Crucial Information You Need To Know

Letting your chicks go out in the backyard when they’re too young can be detrimental to their health and well-being. So, here’s everything you need to know about when chicks can go outside.

At What Age Can Chicks Go Outside?

It is often suggested to start taking chicks out for short excursions around four weeks, just as long as temperatures are in line with those delineated by general temperature guidelines – take a look at the table below.

Week 1 - 35°C
Week 2 - 32 °C
Week 3 - 29°C
Week 4 - 26 °C
Week 5 - 23 °C
Week 6 - 21 °C ( or room temp)
Week 7 - 18 °C (or room temp)
Week 8 - Room Temp

When they’re 4 weeks old, for example, chicks should be kept at a temperature of 26°C

These brief outdoor times will allow them to gradually acclimate, get some exercise, and forage for food.

Make sure to provide them with food and water, as well as shade and a small sheltered area.

If it becomes rainy or windy – or if the younglings don’t seem to be enjoying themselves – bring them back in.

When Can Chicks Go Outside In Winter?

Normally, chicks fully feather by 6 to 8 weeks of age, though this varies depending on the breed and individual bird.

Fully feathered means that all their down or fluff has been replaced by real plumage – an important stage as down by itself is unable to retain heat.

Feathers, on the other hand, are able to fluff up and trap warm air with the help of underlying down feathers.

Therefore, you should avoid putting your baby chicks outside in winter entirely, as they will be at risk of freezing to death.

Wait until they are fully feathered instead, and when you do decide to bring them out, do it little by little instead of making a sudden switch.