Bantam Cochins and Heat

[Chaoticchickens]

What are everyone's experiences with bantam Cochins and the heat? I live in north eastern, PA. And just got a lovely lovely pair. They were pretty expensive and I like them a lot so I am being a bit of a worrier. My hot temps are 80-85 it rarely even gets above that. Their cage outside is shaded either partially or fully during most the day. It does get humid here. I saw my pullet panting one day when it was about 75 and high humidity, and got super worried so they have been in my garage with a fan. I feel like I am worrying way too much. But I don't want to lose them. I bought a little battery powered fan in hopes of putting it on their cage outside so they could go out because they are not happy in the garage. But it doesn't move a whole lot of air far. I am likely worrying too much. Any advice would be great.

 

[GitaBooks]

Many chickens do well below 90 F and above 30 F. I have Sebright bantams (said to be delicate) that survives below zero temperatures and silkies that survive nearing 100 F weather. However, there are some things you can do to help them stay cool:

Make sure they have plenty of shade
Provide cool dirt for them to dig into and rest in
Provide ice in the water, water dishes they can dip their feet into, and plenty of fresh water to drink!!
Provide frozen fruits like watermelon or corn
Provide a fan and/or mister/sprinkler

My chickens pant all the time, this is just like a dog panting and is how they cool off. They will let their wings hang down, even during the evening when it seems pretty cool. This is not a problem. Heat stress is when a chicken is gasping, stumbling or showing other symptoms of brain damage. Quickly dip this bird into a cool (not cold) tub or water to bring their temperature down and prevent further brain damage.

I hope this helps. Feel free to ask any questions. Best of luck!