Mouth open opera singer chicks?

[Fluffnut]

Orpingtons are bigger bodied and have a fluffier coat. They also have softer feathers so they probably aren't as efficient at lifting feathers up to release trapped heat. Combs also help to dispense heat. Orpingtons tend to have smaller combs than others breeds.

Good point- they originated in England where the climate is near the same as New England, and then were further fluffed out for adorability, so I wouldn't be surprised if they're a little warmer.

 

[D-Bar-B]

We've already 100 degree days here and I've noticed my 10-week-old girls panting (the adults seem to be used to it)...I've had a shallow pan that I fill with ice to let them peck at that until it melts. I also started freezing watermelon (slices with the rind) in gallon bags and giving them a couple during the really hot days. All my girls seem to really enjoy both of these things. Good luck!

 

[BeccaDoe]

@D-Bar-B Your girls are so lovely!!

 

[D-Bar-B]

@D-Bar-B Your girls are so lovely!!

Thank you. They're some of my young ones.

 

[Peppercorngal]

I'm not the OP, but I want to thank the responders here as I have the same issue with my BOs. Is there a reason only my Orps are hot?

I have found that certain of my chickens seem hot and some do not! The younger chickens are panting and holding their wings away from their bodies, hot behavior. The old 2 year old hens act as if it's a cold day in winter, they seem perfectly comfortable. I provide many sources of water, on hottest days a mister and they have lots and lots of shade!