Do chickens like warmer or cooler temperatures?

[zrossk]

Do chickens like to be warmer like around 60-70 degreesF or cooler around 30-40 degreesF?

 

[maggiec1951]

If those are my only choices for temperatures - my girls are certainly out of luck. We live in the Tampa Bay area and I don't think it has been below 60 degrees since my chickens were born in June here. We are looking at 80 for Christmas Day.

Actually different breeds do better in different conditions. Obviously I picked breeds that would do well in the heat.

 

[zrossk]

lol ok thanks for your help.

 

[SueBaby]

From what I've heard they tolerate serious cold much better than they tolerate serious heat, but as to what they like? Hmmm. I haven't noticed if they seem happier at certain temps than others. Being Coastal/Southern CA, we don't get much variation in temperature. Guess my chickens are spoiled!

 

[7L Farm]

Chickens like cold weather better they wear a down jacket.

 

[teach1rusl]

I'm not sure why you're asking...lol. Mine seem to enjoy (based on amount of walking/pecking about, dustbathing, sunbathing, generally content behaviors) temps. in the 50s, 60s, 70s. Activity levels seem about the same in the 80s as long as humidity is low. I see a difference in their behaviors (some hunching down, tucking necks in, less activity - not ranging as far) when temps are in the 40s and lower. Temps in the high 80s (w/high humidity) and in the 90s and higher bring panting, extending the wings, less movement.

 

[t/m]

Quote:

 

[hickchick55]

If I had to guess, i would say that mine like it best about 50- 60 but are perfectly fine at 20. We have had a remarkably snow- free winter and that helps- they can still get around everywhere. 3 of my hens are large New Hampshires and the others are ASA Browns and they seem very cold tolerant. The only time I have seen them really stressed out by the weather was one summer night when it just would not cool down at all. I feel the same way.

 

[centrarchid]

I suspect 70's are optimal. Lower, they gravitate towards sunny locations protected from wind. Higher, they seem to spend more time in shade. Smaller birds prefer warmer than larger birds do.

 

[mommissan]

I live in the Adirondacks, and my flock are happiest when it's in the teens. 15 degrees and they are all standing around outside roosting in the open air.