How Do I Get My Teenage Chicks to Go Into the Coop at Night?

If you’ve ever found yourself chasing feathered teenagers around the run at dusk — you’re not alone. That in-between stage where chicks aren’t babies anymore but not quite adult hens can be a little wild, especially when it comes to bedtime.

I’ve been there, flashlight in hand, trying to herd them like toddlers after a sugar rush. Here’s what’s worked for me (and plenty of other keepers) when teenage chickens won’t go into the coop at night.

🐥 Why They Don’t Go In

Teen chicks (usually 6–12 weeks old) are still learning routines. They haven’t imprinted on the coop as “home” yet, especially if they’ve recently moved outside.
Also, chickens are visual creatures — when it starts getting dark, they get nervous and will often huddle wherever they feel safest… even if it’s a random corner of the run.

✅ What’s Worked for Me

1. Keep Them Locked in the Coop for a Few Days

When I first move chicks outside, I keep them closed in the coop (with food and water) for 3–5 days. This helps them learn it’s their home base. After that, they usually return on their own each night.

2. Use a Soft Light Inside the Coop at Dusk

Chickens naturally move toward light as it gets dark. I sometimes hang a dim LED lantern or solar light inside the coop for the first few nights. Once they start going in on their own, I remove it.

3. Gently Guide Them In at Sunset

If they’re still stubborn, I go out just before full dark and calmly guide them in with my arms or a broom — no chasing, just steady nudging. After a few nights, they get the hang of it.

Tip: Never try to move them in full darkness — chickens can’t see well at night and will panic.

4. Make the Coop Comfortable

Check that the coop is draft-free, has proper roosts, and isn’t too hot or stuffy. If something feels “off,” they’ll avoid it. I’ve had young birds refuse to go in just because of a weird smell or overly bright light.

🐔 When to Worry

If they used to go in and suddenly stop, something might be wrong — mites, heat, or a predator smell. Do a quick inspection of the coop and check for signs of discomfort.

Final Thoughts

Teenage chicks are like middle schoolers — awkward, confused, and figuring things out. Be patient, stay consistent, and they’ll start heading into the coop on their own soon enough. Trust me — within a week or two, it’ll become their normal routine.