Winters in Florida are generally mild compared to many other parts of the country. However, temperatures can still drop significantly at night, especially during cold fronts. Preparing your chickens for cooler weather can help keep them healthy, comfortable, and productive throughout the winter months.

Research-based Extension recommendations emphasize that proper management—rather than excessive supplemental heat—is the most effective way to help chickens tolerate cooler temperatures. These tips can help keep your chickens warm during a Florida winter.

Coop Management

Providing additional bedding, such as straw or pine shavings, helps insulate the coop and trap heat. Deep, dry litter also allows birds to generate warmth naturally through microbial activity as it breaks down. Keeping litter dry is essential for both temperature regulation and disease prevention.

Temporary wind blocks, such as tarps or solid panels, can reduce drafts during cold weather. These should be installed carefully to block wind without restricting airflow. While some flock owners consider using heat lamps, they should be used cautiously due to fire risk. In most Florida conditions, mature chickens do not require supplemental heat unless temperatures fall below freezing for extended periods.

Ventilation

Even during cold weather, ventilation remains essential. Chickens produce moisture and ammonia through manure and respiration, and poor airflow can lead to respiratory irritation and health issues.

Effective winter ventilation removes moisture and gases while preventing direct drafts on birds. Air exchange near the top of the coop, combined with protection at roost level, helps maintain a healthy environment.

Nutrition

Fresh, clean water should be available at all times. While freezing water is uncommon in much of Florida, water sources should still be checked daily during cold spells.

Chickens burn more calories to maintain body heat in cooler temperatures, leading to increased feed intake. During winter, birds may consume up to 1.5 times more feed than during summer months. Balanced rations containing adequate protein (typically 12–20%, depending on age and production stage) are recommended. Scratch grains should remain a treat only, as they do not provide sufficient nutrition when fed alone.

Egg Production

Shorter day length during winter often results in reduced egg production or a temporary pause in laying. Hens generally require 14–16 hours of light per day to maintain consistent egg production.

For those who choose to supplement lighting, a low-wattage bulb on a timer can be used to extend daylight hours gradually. Excessive lighting should be avoided, as it can stress birds and negatively impact long-term health.

Final Tips

Regularly observe flock behavior. Birds that are active, alert, and moving normally are generally coping well with cooler temperatures. Monitor combs and wattles during extended cold periods, as these areas are most susceptible to frostbite. When freezing temperatures are forecast, applying a thin layer of petroleum jelly to combs and wattles may help reduce frostbite risk. Frostbite often appears as black or bluish discoloration.

By focusing on proper coop management, ventilation, nutrition, and day length, poultry owners can help ensure their chickens remain healthy and comfortable throughout the Florida winter.

Learn More

For additional science-based information on poultry management and winter care, the following UF/IFAS Extension EDIS publications are helpful resources:

• Raising Backyard Chickens for Eggs – Covers basic housing, nutrition, and health considerations for backyard and small-scale poultry flocks in Florida.

• Egg Production in Backyard Chickens – Explains factors affecting egg laying, including nutrition, lighting, and seasonal changes.

Questions, contact the Brevard County Extension Office for more guidance. 

Article by: Keith Newman and Morgan Yoder

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