Helping your chickens cope with the winter weather
There is the potential for frostbite on both combs and feet when conditions are severe. However, the insulation potential of feathers is very high, so when the hens are roosting, their feet are covered by feathers to keep them warm. The comb remains exposed, so the application of petroleum jelly to the comb of large-combed breeds will help prevent frostbite. The feet of hens are quite tough so frostbite on feet is less likely.
Birds should always have the choice of going in to their house, whatever the weather.
