Why Are My Chicks Noisy at Night?

[PluckyPioneer]

Im new to keeping backyard chickens and have noticed something strange with my three 6-7 week-old chicks. Every night when the sun starts to set, they begin making soft whistling noises, almost like theyre anxious. Its not loud, but since I live in the city, I want to keep them as quiet as possible.

They have a secure coop with fresh shavings, and Ive made sure theyre comfortable. They eat well, explore their run during the day, and seem healthy otherwise. Ive even tried adding a small light to see if that helps, but they still make noise. Once it gets dark, they eventually quiet down, but Id like to know if this is normal or if theres something I can do to help them settle faster.

Is this just a phase, or is something bothering them? Any tips to help keep them calm at night?

[BarnyardPhilosopher]

Im new to keeping backyard chickens and have noticed something strange with my three 6-7 week-old chicks. Every night when the sun starts to set, they begin making soft whistling noises, almost like theyre anxious. Its not loud, but since I live in the city, I want to keep them as quiet as possible.

They have a secure coop with fresh shavings, and Ive made sure theyre comfortable. They eat well, explore their run during the day, and seem healthy otherwise. Ive even tried adding a small light to see if that helps, but they still make noise. Once it gets dark, they eventually quiet down, but Id like to know if this is normal or if theres something I can do to help them settle faster.

Is this just a phase, or is something bothering them? Any tips to help keep them calm at night?

Since they're not going inside, they may not recognize the coop as their sleeping area. Try putting them inside every evening until they learn.

[Eggnigma]

It could be that they aren't used to roosting yet. Try placing them on the roost at dusk for a few nights to help them learn.

[FeatheredTraveler]

Im new to keeping backyard chickens and have noticed something strange with my three 6-7 week-old chicks. Every night when the sun starts to set, they begin making soft whistling noises, almost like theyre anxious. Its not loud, but since I live in the city, I want to keep them as quiet as possible.

They have a secure coop with fresh shavings, and Ive made sure theyre comfortable. They eat well, explore their run during the day, and seem healthy otherwise. Ive even tried adding a small light to see if that helps, but they still make noise. Once it gets dark, they eventually quiet down, but Id like to know if this is normal or if theres something I can do to help them settle faster.

Is this just a phase, or is something bothering them? Any tips to help keep them calm at night?

It might be an environmental trigger,check for predators, strong winds, or unusual sounds at dusk that could be making them uneasy. They'll likely adjust soon!

[BeakyBandit]

Young chickens can be quite vocal at night if they feel insecure. Since they quiet down after a while, it's likely just part of their adjustment period.

[EggSentinel]

Your chicks may be calling for reassurance as night falls. At this age, they are still getting used to their environment, and darkness can make them uneasy. Some people find that adding a dim red light inside the coop can help them settle down gradually instead of being plunged into darkness all at once. Also, if they're not going inside, it may be because they don't yet understand it as their safe space,try placing them inside at dusk for a few nights to encourage the habit.

[CluckAndGrow]

Sometimes chicks make noise when they're not feeling secure. Check for any drafts, odd shadows, or outside disturbances that could be making them nervous.

[HenHouseMystic]

Chickens are creatures of habit, and young ones can be particularly stubborn about change. If your chicks are making noise at night and not heading inside, they may need encouragement. Try placing food and water inside the coop earlier in the evening, so they associate it with safety. You can also physically place them in the coop for a few nights in a row to reinforce the behavior. They'll likely adjust soon!

[GoldenYolkGuy]

It sounds like your chicks haven't fully transitioned to their coop yet. Young birds, especially those recently separated from a brooder, may feel insecure at night. Since they are sleeping on the ground, they may not recognize the coop as their sleeping area yet. You can try gently placing them inside the coop at dusk for a few days until they learn that's where they should go. Also, double-check for any drafts or noises that might be making them uncomfortable in their new space.