Chickens are HOT!

[cluckmecoop7]

Thanks!

 

[rosemarythyme]

80 isn't that hot yet, but you may start to see panting around 85ish. I give my chickens shallow pans (I use big planter saucers) of water to stand in and drink from, and that, plus some shade, is enough for 85-95ish to help them cool off.

Don't dunk them or spray them, that's just upsetting to them. Give them the choice of how/when they want to cool off.

 

[cluckmecoop7]

Thank you! It's cooler today so I don't have to worry.

 

[aart]

Panting and wing spreading is not necessarily dire.
Lethargy is what to watch for.
I toss a few treats to observe mobility.

Deep all day shade is best but....

I give a dose of Sav-a-Chick electrolytes/vitamins about once a week during heat waves.
It really seems to help....started this after they saved a heat stroked hen once.
Can mix up a smaller amount, just wrap the packet tight and store in a dry cool place.
Always have plain water available too.

BIG(9x14x2") chunks of ice last all day for wading, sitting, and sipping.
Much more useful to the chickens than frozen foods and treats.

Make space in your freezer!

 

[cluckmecoop7]

Thanks for the great advice @aart!

 

[cluckmecoop7]

This is a post from a different thread:

See why I'm worried! I already lost a chicken I was very close to this year and I can't afford to loose another!

 

[AngieDawn]

Do they have plenty of shade?

Mine just hand out under the coop on hot days.

 

[cluckmecoop7]

Mine go under the coop too. They are fine right now, and yes, they have shade. Thanks though!