Cold Hardy Chicken Breeds
If you live in a cold area and think backyard chickens are not an option, then this list of cold hardy chicken breeds may be your game changer. You might be surprised to see just how many breeds love the snow.
Tips for raising chickens that not only do well in the cold but thrive in it.
Winter can be hard on animals, especially if they are not physically prepared to handle it. If you are looking to build a flock of chickens that do well in the cold, this list is for you. These robust and resilient chickens are perfect for cold climates, thriving even when temperatures drop into the single digits or below. Their hardiness makes them ideal for living in areas that experience harsh winters.
How cold is too cold for chickens?
Chickens are generally hardy birds and can handle colder temperatures better than you might think. As the weather cools off, their body begins to adapt, growing a thick under-layer of feathers. These feathers are amazing at providing insulation, keeping them warm even in the coldest weather. However, there is a limit to how cold it can be for chickens to remain comfortable and healthy.
Generally, chickens start to experience discomfort when temperatures drop below 32°F (0°C). However, this can vary depending on the breed and how long and well they were able to acclimate. Some breeds are better equipped to handle colder temperatures and remain healthy even in sub-zero conditions.
Can chickens survive without a heat lamp?
Yes, chickens can absolutely survive without a heat lamp in the winter. In fact, using a heat lamp can be dangerous as it is a fire hazard and can cause your coop to overheat, giving chickens the sense that the weather is warmer than it actually is. This may hinder them from growing the feathers they need to stay warm over winter.
Instead of relying on artificial heat sources, it’s best to focus on providing your flock with a warm and dry shelter that protects them from the wind and wet snow.
Choosing the right breed
When selecting chickens that do well in the cold, there are a few key factors to consider:
- Cold hardiness: Some breeds have been specifically bred for colder climates and have adapted to thrive in low temperatures.
- Feather quality: Look for breeds with fluffy feathers that provide better insulation against the cold.
- Comb size: Larger combs and wattles are more prone to frostbite, so look for breeds with smaller combs or ones that have feathered crests covering their combs.
SLCG Pro Tip: You can apply a light coat of petroleum jelly to combs to help protect them from frostbite.
Our Top Cold Hardy Chicken Breeds
These breeds are our top choices for handling the cold weather. We have raised a few on this list and find them to be very hardy even in below zero temps. Please know that you will still need to do a bit of upkeep to your coop to help and we will talk about that in a bit.
#1. Orpington
This breed has a heavy and fluffy plumage that offers excellent insulation against the cold, making them one of the best breeds for cold weather.
#2. Wyandotte
Known for their hardiness, Wyandottes have a rose comb that is less prone to frostbite and a thick coat of feathers.
#3. Plymouth Rock
Another breed with a thick plumage and small combs, Plymouth Rocks are known for their cold tolerance and can even handle snow.
#4. New Hampshires
These are the chickens we raise and find they do very well in the colder temps. They have very thick feathers and are a meatier bird.
#5. Rhode Island
These chickens can withstand harsh winters as they have a small comb and are known for their thick feathers.
#6. Brahma
With their large size, feathered feet, and gentle demeanor, Brahmas are well-suited for colder climates and can even handle temperatures below freezing.
Tips for keeping chickens warm in the winter
No matter how hardy your chickens are, there are still things you can do to promote a warmer environment throughout the winter.
#1. Insulate your coop
Make sure to insulate the walls and roof of your coop to help retain heat. You can use materials such as straw, hay, or even foam insulation.
#2. Warm the water
If temperatures are severely low, consider using a heated water dispenser to provide extra warmth for your flock.
#3. Keep the coop dry
Moisture can make chickens feel colder, so make sure to keep the coop clean and dry throughout the winter.
Winter Coop Items:
DABAOLUM Solar Light Bulbs with Remote Timer, 9W USB Rechargeable Emergency Light Bulb Chicken Coop Light 1800mAh 5 Lighting Modes for Home Shed Hiking Camping Tent Hurricane Power Outage Lamps(Grey)
Woods 0165 Brooder Lamp with Bulb Guard;10.5 Inch Reflector and 6 Foot Cord (250 Watt; 18/2 SJTW); 0JACKYLED Solar Shed Lights, 3300mAh Hanging Light with Remote Control & 16.4ft Extension Cord for Chicken Coop Gazebo Carport Pergola Garden, 6000K Cool WhiteAutomatic Chicken Coop Door, Solar Powered Chicken Door with Timer & Light Sensor, Full Aluminum and Weatherproof Multi-Modes Poultry Coop Door with Anti-Pinch Design(Brown)
#4. Offer warm treats
Giving your chickens warm treats such as cooked oats or scrambled eggs can help them stay warm from the inside out.
#5. Increase their feed
Chickens need more energy to stay warm in the winter, so increasing their feed can provide them with the necessary nutrients and calories.
#6. Provide a windbreak
Place barriers around your coop or install a windbreak fence to protect your chickens from cold winds.
#7. Monitor for signs of cold stress
Keep an eye out for signs of cold stress, such as shivering, reduced activity, or huddling together. If you notice these symptoms, take steps to further insulate and warm your coop.
#8. Allow for sunshine
When possible, allow your chickens to bask in the sun during the day to help keep them warm.
Overall, while some chicken breeds may be more suited for colder climates than others, with these tips, you can help keep your chickens warm and comfortable throughout the winter season. Remember to always check on them regularly and adjust accordingly as the weather changes. With proper care, your feathered friends will make it through even the coldest of winters.
More Cold Care for Chickens:
- How to Keep Chickens Warm in Winter Without Electricity
- Caring for Chickens in the Winter
- How to Keep Eggs From Freezing in the Winter
Hi Tracy. Thanks for this great article. This is my first winter with chickens, luckily we’ve had mild weather in Oklahoma. I was wondering if you could recommend a reputable hatchery for baby chicks? Last spring, I bought my first chicks at a local feed store and was disappointed since most ended up being roosters even though they said “pullets”. I enjoy your blog!!
Hi, Holli!
We, too, are having a mild winter so far. I buy my chicks from Murray McMurray. They offer many vacations for chicks and electrolytes to give on arrival, and very rarely do I ever get a rooster. They can’t guarantee no roosters as chicks are very hard to sex, but they have a good track record with me.
Good luck!
Tracy Lynn