Do I have to?

[tombokinz]

I was wondering if it would be okay to keep my 8 Australorps in my basement. They will have plenty of room but I am not sure if they would like it. Now that its summer, I will be home from school every day so I will give them plenty of playtime outside. Can anyone help?

[alfieblue]

Ok tombokinz - I hope this isnt a wind up!!! But i am wondering!!!

I dont want to appear harsh, but would you like to be kept in a basement all day with no air, no ventilation, no light??

No animal, bird or any other creature should be left in those conditions!

The chicks don't need playtime! They need quality life outside in the fresh air, with adequate housing, room to peck, scratch up the ground and have a bit of freedom.

Suggest you ask your mum and dad for advice and leave the basement free for all your other bits and pieces - but definately not for livestock. Time to do your research young person!!!

[Kleiber]

Oh, come on!! Are you the idiot who posted about Australorps about a fortnight ago?

[wildwood]

Let me guess.... your mum is starting to detect a certain odour in your bedroom so she's put the hard word on you to either shift them to the basement or else!

If it is just for the nights the basement should be ok as, I presume, they are not feathered up yet so they still need warmth. A minimum '2 per square yard' run is easily made, providing there are no cats about. If you can't afford the wire netting, that shadecloth is a cheap alternative. Leave the top open for sunlight.