Top Tips for Caring for Chickens During a Heat Wave
As temperatures rise, it’s crucial to ensure that your backyard flock stays cool and comfortable. Chickens are particularly vulnerable to heat stress, and without proper care, they can suffer from serious health issues and even death. I honestly believe allowing your chickens to free range is the best option for keeping them cool during a heat wave. When they have the freedom to roam, they can find shade under trees, dig in the dirt, and take dust baths to regulate their body temperature. However, if free-ranging just isn’t possible, there are several other ways to help your chickens beat the heat.
Free Ranging: The Ideal Solution
Free-ranging your chickens during a heat wave is the possibly the most effective way to help them stay cool. When chickens have access to open spaces, they naturally seek out shady spots, such as under trees or bushes, where the ground is cooler. They will also dig in the dirt to create cooler spots to rest in. Additionally, dust bathing helps chickens cool down and protects them from parasites. I have found my chickens in some inventive spots during high heat, and they always do a better job of staying cooler on their own than what I can provide for them. Chickens are naturally hardy, and here in Eastern Montana we have reached -40 degree Farenheit, and we are currently sitting at 103 degrees. I try not to interfere in either direction too much and leave them to their own devices other than their usual general care. Now obviously there are things you can do to make them more comfortable, and you should monitor your flock during extreme temperatures, but when it is hot, free ranging is quite literally a life saver. If you have a safe and secure area where your chickens can roam, allowing them to free range is an amazing option for their well-being during hot weather.
Chicken with their mouth open is a sign they are hot. These free ranging birds have access to water and shade to help cool them off.
Alternatives to Free Ranging
If free-ranging isn’t an option due to space limitations, predators, or other concerns, there are several other ways to keep your chickens cool during a heat wave.
1. Provide Frozen Treats
Frozen treats are a great way to help your chickens cool down. You can freeze fruits and vegetables, such as berries or peas, and offer them to your flock. Chickens love pecking at these icy snacks, and it helps them lower their body temperature. I will also provide the chickens with a smoothie from time to time. I just give them our leftovers, add in some whole veggies and fruit and they love it! Watermelon, zucchini and cucumbers are also great snacks on their own since they have a high water content. My chickens love watermelon and we always have extra squash from the garden to give them during the summer months. Additionally, you can freeze water in shallow containers and place them in the run. As the ice melts, it provides a cool surface for the chickens to stand on or drink from.
2. Ensure Fresh and Cold Water
Access to fresh, cold water is essential for chickens during a heat wave. Chickens need to stay hydrated to regulate their body temperature. Make sure their water containers are in shaded areas and refill them with cold water daily if not more. I keep a lot of water around the farm for easy access! Adding ice cubes to the water can help keep it cool for longer periods. Automatic waterers with a continuous supply of fresh water can also be a lifesaver during extreme heat.
3. Create a Covered Run
A covered run provides much-needed shade and protection from the sun. You can use tarps, shade cloths, or even old bedsheets to cover the run and create a cooler environment. Position the cover so it blocks the sun during the hottest parts of the day, typically from late morning to early afternoon. Additionally, ensure that there is good ventilation in the run to allow for air circulation and prevent overheating.
4. Use Misters or Fans
Misters and fans can significantly reduce the temperature in the chicken run. Misters spray a fine mist of water that evaporates quickly, cooling the surrounding air. Install misters around the run and turn them on during the hottest parts of the day. Fans can also help by increasing air circulation and providing a breeze. Place fans in safe, covered areas where chickens can benefit from the airflow without getting too close to the blades. I have never done this, but I have hosed down their run area and the surrounding grass with a garden hose and they generally enjoy standing in the cooler wet spots.
5. Offer Dust Bathing Areas
Even if your chickens can’t free range, providing designated dust bathing areas in the run can help them cool down. Fill shallow containers with sand, dirt, and a bit of diatomaceous earth. Chickens will use these areas to take dust baths, which help regulate their body temperature and keep them clean. Place the dust bathing areas in shaded parts of the run to make them more appealing.
6. Adjust Feeding Times
Feeding chickens during the cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late evening, can prevent them from generating excess heat while digesting food. Offer them lighter, more refreshing treats during the day and save their main feed for cooler times. Avoid feeding high-protein foods, as protein generates more heat during digestion.
Monitoring and Prevention
Regularly monitor your chickens for signs of heat stress, such as panting, lethargy, and pale combs. If you notice any of these symptoms, take immediate action to cool them down by providing cold water, shade, or moving them to a cooler area. Prevention is key, so implementing these tips consistently will help ensure your flock remains healthy and comfortable throughout the heat wave.
Broody Hens
If you’ve ever had a broody hen, you know how hard it is to break that cycle. Broody hens have a higher risk of heat exhaustion because they are generally sitting in a literal hot box for the majority of the day. I always pull my broodys out as often as possible and will sometime lock them out of the coop to make sure they get some heat relief. It is almost always cooler in the shade of our trees than in the coop on a hot summer day, and I prefer they hang out there. I do not want my chickens in their coop much in the summer so I really try to break that broodiness or at least offset it as much as I can by removing the hens from their nest. They may not like it, but it really is for their own good.
While free-ranging is my favorite way to keep chickens cool during a heat wave, there are many effective alternatives for those who cannot allow their flock to roam freely. Monitor your flock closely and your feathered friends will appreciate the extra care.
Watermelon is always a hit!