103 Degrees and Chicks Due Tomorrow

[americanvalkyrie]

It's going to be hot tomorrow! I have a broody with 3 eggs, and tonight I heard peeping and tapping inside the eggs, so they're ready to come out. It's supposed to be 103! Also, I have a very busy day from 2p-8p where I'll only be able to check on them for a brief time, about once an hour.

I'm going to put a fan in the coop, and leave the door open for a good cross-ventilation. I'm also going to make sure she has water available right by her nest. Are there any other tips I can use to help the babies survive in the heat? The nesting box is pretty large, but would it be safe to put an ice pack in the far corner?

If I brought her in the house to hatch, would that be too much of a risk?

 

[Judy]

I would probably leave them where they are so they can acclimate themselves. Sounds like you are taking care of the basics: shade, water and breeze available. You could leave an ice pack where it's accessible but I wouldn't put it in the nest with the mama. Be sure they have some choices, where they can move in or out of breeze, or close to/away from the ice.