Chickens are prone to heat stress during periods of high temperatures and humidity. While chickens do acclimate to heat over time, sudden heat waves can cause trouble. When under severe heat stress, egg production drops and mortality risk rises. All chickens are susceptible to heat stress, but particularly older birds. The effects of heat stress also cause smaller egg size, thin egg shells and poor internal egg quality. Hot weather is synonymous with summertime, so become familiar with the signs of heat stress and how to lessen its impact. Doing so keeps your poultry productive and comfortable. A chicken’s normal body temperature hovers near 104 to 107 degrees F. It’s not difficult for them to maintain a healthy body temperature when the air is at least 10 to 15 degrees below that. During times of extreme temps, chickens must be able to reduce their excess body heat quickly. When a chicken’s body temperature reaches 113 to 117 degrees F, it is in danger. Without sweat glands to cool their skin, birds rely on their respiratory system. Chickens pant to cool themselves, as the panting evaporates water from the throat to lower body temperature. Water is vital to chickens surviving hot weather. Have very cool, clean drinking water available at all times in accessible locations. Chickens are not inclined to eat during the heat of the day, so feed them during the coolest part of the day. Digestion naturally produces heat. Keep chickens in a well-ventilated areas with adequate air flow. Some may even use fans to help keep their flock cool and comfortable. Install some type of evaporative cooling, such as a misting or fogging system. Water on the chickens’ bodies helps to cool them. Avoid overcrowding . Provide shady areas. During the heat of the day, don’t disturb the birds. Let them rest. Regularly remove any accumulated litter from the chicken coop, as decomposition produces heat. Removal also keeps pests to a minimum. Outside of the chicken coop, tall grass and weeds restrict air flow, while bare ground can reflect heat. Low cut grass is best as it helps to absorb the sun and heat. Use common sense. If you’re hot, your chickens are hot. Think about it, would you want to wear a down jacket when it’s 100 degrees outside?
Posted on: Wed, 31 Jul 2013 18:33:37 +0000
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