Do desert-raised chickens still lay less in the summer?

[chkncatlady]

Im new to this. I'm in the Southwest of AZ and we've already had a few days that breech 100°. My Black Sex Link, Silver Laced and Rhode Island Red were all hatched in March of this year. Based on what I've read, they will reach laying maturity in July-August, when 120° is common. Being that they have been raised while thr temperature has gone up, will they be acclimated to the heat and their egg production not be reduced from stress or should I expect a delay? Ive read a lot about ways to keep them cool, but the shade in their coop has been plenty so far. Frozen watermelon, ice bottles, and a timed mister are likely once its consistently hot.

 

[teach1rusl]

I doubt that they'll be delayed in their start of laying, as it'll be the time of year when the days are super long. Pullets that age probably won't be as stressed by the heat as older gals (plus it sounds as if you already have plans for helping them cope). I feel badly for folks whose pullets come of age in December/January, when there's not even 10 hours of daylight available, since chickens need 14-15 hours of light for good egg production.

 

[chkncatlady]

You were right! First egg came at 18-19 weeks and they seem fairly tolerant, despite the extreme temperatures. I've become quite the MacGyver with ways to keep them cool (well....less hot).