Once your coop is ready for winter, daily management becomes the focus of keeping chickens healthy. Ventilation is one of the most overlooked but essential elements of cold-weather care. Chickens produce moisture through daily processes like breathing and manure, and without adequate airflow, condensation accumulates. Combined with low temperatures, this creates the perfect conditions for frostbite on combs, wattles, and feet. South-facing windows, roof vents, or partially covered openings with burlap can help move stale air out while limiting drafts. If you see moisture on windows or smell ammonia, it’s time to increase airflow and get shoveling that manure.
Managing bedding also plays a major role in moisture control. Because chicken manure contains about 70% water, it builds up quickly under roosts. Using trays to catch manure makes cleaning easier. On the coop floor, choose either frequent cleanouts or a deep-bedding method. Deep bedding, 4 to 6 inches of straw or shavings stirred regularly, will promote composting. Topping off with new material will reduce moisture and generate a bit of natural heat. Regardless, just be prepared for a thorough clean-out in spring.
Feeding stays simple in winter but expect your flock to eat more to meet energy demands, up to 25% above warm summer feed amounts. Continue offering a balanced ration and keep extra feed on hand. Provide poultry grit freely, especially when snow limits their ability to forage for small stones in their environment. Scratch grains can be used sparingly as a warm-up treat before roost time, while root vegetables, squash, pumpkins, and seed blocks can keep birds active and curious. Always verify that any treat is safe for poultry with a veterinarian if you have questions.
Fresh, unfrozen water is non-negotiable, and heated bases, fountains, or dog dishes can help. Elevate waterers to keep bedding out, check water flow often, and keep cords safely away from birds and moisture.
Winter also affects egg laying. Naturally, clean nest boxes regularly, collect eggs promptly, and watch for freezing or cracking. To maintain egg production, provide supplemental morning light so birds receive about 14 hours total. Avoid evening lighting; chickens need light to navigate to their roost.
Finally, fall is a good time to make tough decisions. Birds that are elderly, underweight, or chronically ill may struggle through winter, and culling early can prevent prolonged suffering.
With good ventilation, proper nutrition, safe water, and attentive daily care, your flock can stay comfortable and productive until spring greets us in 2026.
Note: For the first part in this series about keeping chickens in winter, please click here.
By Dana Adams, University of Minnesota Extension
