When the temperatures start to drop, many chicken keepers face the same dilemma: how to keep their flock warm without accidentally sealing up the coop too tightly. While it may seem natural to block every crack and crevice against the chill, proper ventilation is one of the most important aspects of coop care during the fall and winter months.

The key is balance—your hens need fresh air, but not cold drafts.

Why Ventilation Matters in Cooler Weather

Chickens produce both moisture and ammonia inside the coop. Without good airflow, that buildup can lead to respiratory issues, frostbite, and overall discomfort for your flock. Even in cold months, moving air is necessary to:

  • Reduce moisture that can lead to frostbitten combs and wattles (using a highly absorbent bedding like hemp helps too!)

  • Remove ammonia odors caused by droppings

  • Keep fresh oxygen circulating for healthier breathing

A stuffy coop may feel “warmer,” but it’s actually more dangerous for your birds.

Drafts vs. Ventilation: What’s the Difference?

  • Ventilation = Controlled airflow, usually placed higher up in the coop, that lets warm, moist air escape and fresh air in.

  • Drafts = Cold air blowing directly onto your chickens at roost level, which chills them and can cause stress or illness.

Think of ventilation like a vented attic—air moves without creating a wind tunnel at your chickens’ backs.

Fall Ventilation Tips for Your Coop

1. Use High Vents, Not Low Openings

Place ventilation openings near the roofline, away from roosting areas. Warm, moist air naturally rises and escapes without creating a draft at bird level.

2. Keep Coop Windows Covered

If your coop has windows, cover them with plexiglass or clear panels. This keeps out the chill while still allowing sunlight in.

3. Don’t Overstuff the Coop

Chickens huddle for warmth, but overcrowding leads to excessive moisture and ammonia. Make sure your flock has enough space per bird.

4. Add Windbreaks, Not Seals

Instead of caulking every crack, use natural windbreaks like bales of straw, tarps, or fencing outside the coop to block harsh winds while still allowing air exchange.

5. Flip Your Roosting Bars

Here’s a simple trick: if your roosting bars are rectangular, flip them so the wider side faces up. This gives chickens more surface area to cover with their feet, helping protect their toes from frostbite during cold nights.

6. Choose Highly Absorbent Bedding

Bedding plays a big role in controlling coop moisture. Using a highly absorbent option like hemp keeps the floor drier, reduces odors, and provides added comfort for your flock.

7. Deep Litter Method for Extra Warmth

By adding layers of clean bedding, you not only help insulate the coop floor but also create natural heat as the bedding composts. Just remember: ventilation is even more important when using deep litter to release extra moisture.

A Cozy Balance for Your Flock

As fall settles in, the goal is simple: keep fresh air flowing above your hens while keeping them free from cold drafts at roost level. With the right ventilation (and the right bedding), your chickens will stay comfortable, breathe easier, and lay strong, healthy eggs all season long.

After all, a well-ventilated coop means warmer, happier hens—and fewer worries for you.