BDN interviews Coffin about chicken coop heat lamps
The Bangor Daily News interviewed Donna Coffin, a professor with University of Maine Cooperative Extension, for the article, “Heat lamps are an unnecessary fire risk in chicken coops.” Chickens can knock over the lamps into their bedding, creating a fire risk. And chickens are able to keep themselves warm enough even in Maine winters without heat lamps, according to the article. “Chickens do not need a heat source in the winter,” said Coffin. “As long as they are acclimated, in a draft-free shelter and have dry bedding, they will be fine.” The only impact of cold weather will be reduced egg production from laying hens, according to Coffin. If someone really wants to give their chickens supplemental heat, she suggests a wall-mounted coop heater specifically designed for safety. WGME (Channel 13) published the BDN article.