Being away from birds in 110+ heat

[Riverbend Farms]

Hi,
I was wondering if anyone knows of anyways to keep chickens cool when someone else who doesn't have chickens is taking care of them? I have a swamp cooler running for my bantams and I am going to see how that will do, but it is 110* here on Wednesday, and I might be away. Are there any for sure ways to keep birds very cool other than swamp coolers?

 

[Luv Ducks]

Hi,

I have heard of people putting tarps over their pens to lower the temperatures. I don't know what your setup is, maybe it is already shaded. Good luck in keeping them from getting heat strokes. I have ducks and have been blessed to have not lost any in our heat that got up to the high 90's.

 

[Hungry Chicken]

Hi! I would definitely make sure they have access to plenty of water, maybe even consider adding ice and/or electrolytes since it's so hot. And make sure they always have somewhere shaded, even when the sun angle changes throughout the day. Our hens enjoy some high-water content fruit (mostly watermelon) too. Also make sure they have good ventilation.

I've heard of people setting up a misting system and putting out shallow pans of ice/cool water to sit in. Good luck!!

 

[EmmaDonovan]

I bought these plastic drawer organizers. I fill them with water and treats (blueberries, peas, etc.) and freeze them. I keep a stack in the freezer and swap them out 2-3 times a day in the coop.

We use this flexible mister but don't put it in the shape shown in the photo because that looks like a snake and can frighten the chickens!

I fill suet cages with chopped and frozen fruit & veggies and hang them around the coop.

We have a pedestal fan outside the coop aimed in, for air circulation. It's under a tarp but if there's a lot of rain or wind we bring it inside the house.

I also put ice in the waterers several times a day.

If you're going to be away you can make and freeze the organizer trays and suet cages in advance.

 

[Mrs. K]

Shade and water - all day! Air movement.