Why Chickens Stop Roosting at Night and How to Retrain Them

When chickens suddenly stop roosting at night, it can be frustrating—and concerning. Instead of settling on the perch, you may find hens sleeping on the coop floor, crowding into nesting boxes, or refusing to go inside at all.

This is especially common during seasonal shifts, stress, parasite flare-ups, or when something about the roost feels uncomfortable. The good news? Once you identify the cause, retraining is usually quick.

Why Chickens Naturally Roost

Roosting is instinctive. Chickens are wired to sleep off the ground because it feels safer and more secure. A proper roost mimics what chickens would choose naturally.

• Safety: sleeping higher reduces predator risk.
• Warmth: perching lets chickens tuck feet and conserve heat.
• Lower stress: predictable bedtime habits support overall health.

Common Reasons Chickens Stop Roosting

Chickens don’t abandon the roost without a reason. Here are the most common causes—and what to do about each one.

1) The Coop Is Too Hot or Too Cold

Roost height matters because heat rises. In summer, the roost can be the hottest spot in the coop. In winter, drafts or damp air can make the roost feel miserable—even if temperatures seem “fine” during the day.

• Too hot: chickens choose the floor where air feels cooler.
• Too cold/drafty: they may sleep lower to avoid direct airflow on the roost.
• Stale air: poor ventilation can make roost-height air feel heavy and irritating.

Quick checks:

• Stand inside the coop at roost height—do you feel a breeze on the bars?
• Look for condensation on walls/ceiling (moisture makes cold feel colder).
• Make sure ventilation is high (above roost level), not blowing directly on birds.

Cold-night help: If roosting problems show up during winter, this article pairs well: Keeping Chickens Warm: Improving Circulation Naturally in Winter —and if you’re concerned about combs and wattles, read: How to Prevent Frostbite in Chickens .

2) Roosts Are Uncomfortable

If the roost is uncomfortable, chickens will avoid it—simple as that. Foot comfort matters a lot.

• Too round: dowels don’t let toes rest naturally.
• Too narrow: feet can’t lay flat or stay warm.
• Too rough: splinters and friction irritate feet.
• Too high/awkward: nervous or heavier birds may avoid jumping.

What works best for most flocks:

• 2×4 roosts (wide enough for feet to flatten).
• Smooth wood with rounded edges (no splinters).
• Enough space so birds aren’t forced into conflict.

3) Pecking Order Problems at Bedtime

The roost is prime real estate. If there isn’t enough room—or the flock dynamic is tense—timid birds may choose the floor.

• Bullying: dominant hens guard “best” roost spots.
• Too little roost space: crowding triggers conflict.
• New birds: they may avoid the roost to stay out of trouble.

Easy fixes:

• Add a second roost bar or widen roost space.
• Space roosts so birds can’t easily peck neighbors.
• Make sure there’s room for every bird to perch comfortably.

4) Parasites or Irritations Near the Roost

If the roost feels “itchy” or unpleasant, chickens quickly learn to avoid it. Mites and lice often hide in crevices close to roost bars.

• Mites: hide in cracks, especially in wood joints.
• Lice: irritate skin/feathers and disrupt sleep.
• Dirty surfaces: buildup can smell or feel uncomfortable.

If you suspect pests, clean and inspect the roost area closely—especially seams, corners, and under bars.

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5) Illness or Stress

Sick or stressed birds often choose easier, lower sleeping spots. Sometimes they can’t jump well. Other times they simply don’t feel safe or comfortable.

• Predator pressure: lurking at night can spook a flock off the roost.
• Routine changes: noise, new animals, or moving the coop can disrupt bedtime habits.
• Health issues: injury, weakness, or respiratory stress can change roosting behavior fast.

If you notice sudden changes, do a quick health check and listen for breathing changes. In winter, also make sure water is always available: How to Keep Chicken Water From Freezing .

How to Retrain Chickens to Roost

Once you fix the underlying problem, retraining is usually straightforward.

• Place them on the roost at dusk each night until it becomes habit.
• Block nesting boxes at night so they don’t sleep there.
• Make roosts comfortable (2x4s, smooth wood, good spacing).
• Use light guidance—a dim light near the roost until they settle.

Creating a Stress-Free Night Routine

Chickens thrive on routine. A predictable evening schedule reduces stress and helps roosting become automatic again.

• Close the coop at the same time each evening.
• Keep bedtime calm—less noise, less commotion near dusk.
• Use a dim light briefly if needed, then turn it off once they settle.
• Offer familiar, calming scents to signal “safe bedtime.”

Final Thoughts

If your chickens stop roosting, don’t worry—it’s common and usually fixable. Once you identify the reason and make a few small adjustments, you can guide your flock back to healthy roosting habits.

With patience, a consistent routine, and a little seasonal herbal support, your chickens will be back to perching proudly each night.