Keeping Chickens Cool in Hot Weather

Keeping Chickens COOL in Hot Weather An infographic brought to you by PoultryDVM Signs of a Heat-Stressed Chicken Open-mouth breathing Hen's may stop laying eggs Gutar flutter sound Wings lifted Provide constant access to shade Providing birds with multiple shade areas can reduce temperatures by 10°F/5°C and more. In some conditions it can cool up to 40°F/23°C. Umbrella Shade sail Pergola Shade tree Curtains Canopy Reduce chicken's body temperature Fill up a small baby pool w/ water Partially bury a frozen milk jug filled w/ water Provide a dustbathing Attach a misting system area to the hose Use fans to increase airflow and promote Provide splash mats and other water games Install radiant barrier Give frozen ice cube insulation in coop roof treats better air circulation Do provide sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) to hens drinking water. Add 1/4 cup of baking soda per gallon of drinking CAUTION! Do not administer vinegar in drinking water during hot weather. Baking Soda water. Provide frozen fruits and vegetables Raspberries Cantaloupe Watermelon Blueberries Lettuce Cherry Green pepper Cucumber Pineapple Melon tomatoes References http://www.alloutcool.com/outdoor-shade-materials.html http://www.attainable-sustainable.net/hot-chicken/ http://www.thehappychickencoop.com/7-ways-to-keep-your-chickens-cool-during-summer/ https://ferndalechickens.com/2012/05/17/chickens-in-hot-weath- er-17-ways-to-help-keep-your-flock-cool-this-summer/ http://www.fresheggsdaily.com/2012/06/frozen-ice-pops-mint-helps-beat-heat.html G Damerow. The Chicken Health Handbook. Storey Publishing. 2015. PoultryDVM.com