Reducing Heat Stress in Chickens

Chickens can get used to hot weather over time, but sudden heat waves can cause problems. It seems that older hens are the most likely to suffer from heat related problems. Heat stress in chickens can at the very least, lower egg production, and at it worst, be fatal. High humidity and temperatures can also cause growth problems in younger birds. When it comes to your eggs, it is also important to reduce heat stress in chickens. The eggs can end up with very thin shells and be smaller than normal. They may end up not tasting as good, either.

A chicken has a normal body temperature between 104 degrees and 107 degrees. When the outside temperature is 90 degrees or lower, most chickens will not have problems. Once the temperature rises over 90 degrees, you should begin taking measures to protect your flock. Chickens do not sweat, they pant. This helps to cool themselves down.

Begin with the obvious - water. Make sure you have plenty of cool, fresh water available and easy for your hens to get to and drink. You may also want to add poultry electrolytes to the water. The electrolytes help to balance the hens system to make up from what is lost from panting. Electrolytes can help increase the water intake of most birds, too. If you have any concerns about doing this, it is better to consult with a veterinarian. Another step to reduce heat stress in chickens is to feed them at the coolest times of day. The digestion process can help to creat heat, and hens do not want to eat when it is really hot. It is probably best to feed your hens as early as possible, but definitey before it warms up.

If possible, try to set a fan to blow in the direction that the wind normally blows. A fan's breeze will help the hens deal with the heat. Misting them with cool water will also help them fight heat. If you could install a misting or fogging system, it would be great. If not, a quart size spray bottle to mist houseplants would work fine. Just slightly wet their bodies with the mist. Make sure the flock has enough room and avoid overcrowding. If the layers will be outside, provide shade under a tree to help keep cool. It is best to let the chickens rest during the hottest parts of the day. Adding insulation in the ceiling of the coop to absorb some of the heat would be a great plan before it gets too hot.