SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/chick-winter-ventilation

In winter, which sign means your coop needs more ventilation?

An ammonia smell or moisture on windows.

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  1. Chickens fluffing their feathers
  2. Ammonia smell or wet windows ✔
  3. Fewer eggs on short days

Why: Breath and droppings add moisture and ammonia. If you smell ammonia or see water collecting inside, open vents more and clean up manure.

Huh, didn't know that: Minnesota Extension says chicken manure is about 70 percent water.

The dad joke
Why did the chicken open a vent in winter? To air out the coop without chilling the roost.
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References

Answer: Ammonia smell or wet windows. Breath and droppings add moisture and ammonia. If you smell ammonia or see water collecting inside, open vents more and clean up manure.

  1. University of Minnesota Extension: Caring for Chickens in Cold Weather extension.umn.edu/agriculture/animals-and-livestock/poultry/caring-for-chickens-in-cold-weather
    If you smell ammonia or notice moisture collecting on objects or windows within the coop, you need to increase ventilation
    Checked 2026-10-11.

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