Welcome to BYC, glad to know you have discovered how wonderful (grand) chickens are! You have received lots of good advice re how to keep chickens cool during summer heat. A chicken's normal body temperature is 105-107 degrees, and on top of that they are clad in a warm down coat, so keeping them comfortable during summer heat waves can be a challenge. In addition to ideas listed above, chilled summer fruit and vegetables such as watermelons, blueberries, tomatoes, squash, etc can help keep them cool and also provide good vitamins, minerals and electrolytes. I also run soaker hoses under shade trees during dry, hot summer heat, and the hens clearly enjoy standing and walking in the cool well water.
to have you here with us. Enjoy your time here at BYC!
