1. Is your coop wooden? I would probably sweep out any dirt and stuff, and if it is dirty you can wipe down with a sponge, or spray with a bleach and water solution. (I don't really know the exact mixtures, so you might have to research that more)
2. It really depends where you are in the winter. I am not trying to sterotype or anything but I since you are from Canada your winters are probably really cold. Our winters are really cold too, but I am sure not nearly as bad as yours. I don't really provide that many heat sources for my chickens but it is usually only a little below freezing in the winter. I(I mainly only use a heater to keep their water from freezing). I make sure they have plenty of places to get out of snow and wind. I also know how to check for frostbite and tell if they are too cold. But I have very cold-hardy breeds. XD My friend (the same friend) lives higher up in the mountains provide heat sources for her chickens and they are also perfectly fine each year. If I were you, I would provide a little heat, but I definitely wouldn't go overboard. Keep in mind, if your heat lamp or heater decides to malfunction or fail it can be very lethal to your chickens. They won't be used to the cold, and they might die.
3. It doesn't really matter what time of day you gather the eggs. I usually do it in the afternoon/evening because chickens tend to lay their eggs in the early to late mornings. I like to give them plenty of privacy when they lay eggs.
Sorry, I really can't help you there. I am in the US, and I don't really know any food brand there. Sorry. :(
Hmmm, the links don't work for me. I think it might be because you are in Canada and I am in US. Just remember that protein should be at 15%-18%. With chicks you want extra protein.
Oyster shells aren't required, but they are very useful if your hens aren't getting enough calcium. It really depends on the food percentages. Ways to tell is if their eggshells are thin, if they are eating their eggs, if they are pulling each others feathers, etc. I usually give my hens a small handful of oyster shell every once in a while. I have not had any problems with too little calcium.
Hmm...Well, like in January and February (the coldest months here), we get negative 35 - 40 temps. Too cold for us! And yet plenty of people around here have chickens.
Just like a heating pad for the water...?
Hmm, they should...But it is a Canadian website, so I don't know if that makes it any different :P
Okay. Do oyster shells come like ground up or smashed or....?
Thank you for all the help!
