Heat impact on growth and time beginning of laying.

[Karlkoe]

Hi!

I live in Texas and the heat is brutal 99-105 most days in July and august! I’m managing my birds okay with a learning curve but they are juveniles 3-4 months old. I know that egg laying slows in heat but these are teenager birds hatched early and late April. I’m working to give them cold feed, cold water, and cooler treats just about daily.

My question is - will heat stunt my chickens growth or just slow it down?

Most of these birds begin laying between 4-7 months of age. But am wondering will the heat slow the growth and keep extend the time my bird will begin laying because of less feed?
Or even a greater fear, will the birds become sterile and not lay ever?

Would love some help just to set some expectations and plan well in the fall.

Thank you in advanced!

 

[aldarita]

Following this post. I'm exactly in the same situation. I have eight 15 week old chicks and doing everything I can to reduce heat stress.
I have had chicks around that age during the South Texas sumners since I usually get my chicks in April. My pullets have started laying around 5 to 6 months. However, this heat wave is a lot worse than what we are used to. I certainly hope it does not affect the natural growth and development of my chicks