The chicks were able to go out their door for the first time!

We have wire up almost all the way around the runs, and the main doors are in and latched. It is enough complete that we felt OK letting the chicks use their own door. (They are getting heavier and harder to carry outside!) The door we bought opens when the sun comes out and closes when it gets dark, but we are not ready for that yet, so I just propped it open today.

We stayed with the chicks, because the top of the runs is still open. Hawks and cats could still get in.

Sophie, our outside cat, saw the chicks out today, but now there is wire between them! Yay!

My husband and eldest started putting up wire around the runs!

We are using 1/4″ hardware cloth along the bottom to keep smaller critters out, but along the upper sides and top we are using larger fencing because of cost.

There is still lots to do before the chickens have free run of the place, but we are getting there!

with new doors on the lower storage area.

I used more siding scrap and was able to cut matching doors and install the hinges, handles, and latches. All the better to keep the chickens out.

And here is a cute picture of a chick roosting.

And here is some video of the chicks trying to get meal worms out of a treat dispenser.

We opened up the “fence” and made even more room for the chicks. While their inside area was opened up, they experienced bright sunlight outside for the first time. They preferred the shade.

I use some scrap wainscoting and screws to attach the ends of the barrier to the posts so we have less chance of escapees. They are really enjoying running around. We also gave them some grass clippings for the first time. They LOVED it. It was so fun to watch!