Keeping chickens through a New England winter

Most cold-hardy breeds handle New Hampshire winters well if the coop is dry and draft-free.

Dry beats warm

Frostbite usually comes from damp air. Good high ventilation matters more than heat.

Water that doesn't freeze

A heated waterer base saves a lot of trips with a kettle. Check it daily.

Be careful with heat lamps

Heat lamps in dusty, bedding-filled coops are a fire risk. Most healthy adult hens don't need one.

Fewer eggs is normal

Hens lay less as days get shorter. That's natural, not a sign something's wrong.