We have been raising four female chickens from little one week old chicks. When they were really young, it was critical to keep the temperature of their pen well regulated. We did that with a work light and an infra-red heat lamp on a light boom.
The boom was handy because we could adjust the distance over the pen and therefore adjust the heat. At first, the chicks needed about 90 degrees Farenheit (abut 32 C.). The temperature was prety critical when they were young. We kept the chicks indoors for their first six weeks. Now their comfort level is about 70 degrees Farenheit (about 21 degrees C.) and we have them out on our patio to transition them to outdoor living. They have grow quite a bit and have their adult feathers by now.
Note: the circular object under the perch bar is a thermometer so we can keep track of the temperature.
Pretty soon, as the weather warms, we will transition the hens to this hen house. I am going to add some run area to the house to keep the chickens happy and safe.
This hen house will be located under some oak trees in a fenced off section of our yard. We selected this area because it remains fairly temperate even during the months when our daytime temperature can exceed 100 degrees F. (over 37 degrees C.). The fenced off section will keep the hens safe from any rescue dogs who might chase them. Supposedly chickens thrive among oak leaves along with some additives. There is a power outlet near the hen house and I am going to rig up a thermostat for the winter. We actually never get really that cold even in January.
We do not plan to eat these chickens but are looking forward to about a dozen or so eggs each week starting about five months from now.