I am planning on getting a few buff orphington chicks, but I live in Nevada. Where the weather gets in the hundreds most summer days. If I provided these birds with plenty of cold water, fans, and shade would they possibly be ok? Also what are some ways to keep the chickens cool during the summer? And sorry last question but what is the best flooring for the bottom of the coop during the hotter months? Thank you! Sorry for all the questions!
You may want to post on your state thread to see what others say about Orpingtons enduring such high heat. They would know best. Also ask what type of coop they use. In very hot regions some folks have an open air coop , with 3 or 4 sides made completely of wire and maybe a solid top for some shade. I've heard Black Australorps can take heat but, I think a black bird would really suffer. You need as much shade as possible - natural or manmade. Some put out frozen gallon water bottles and the birds like to sit near them. Or shallow pans with water - cool feet = cool(er) bird. A friend in Arizona used to air condition the coop. I think set to just maybe 10 degrees lower than outside temp - feels MUCH cooler inside.
Hi and welcome to BYC. If i am not mistaken i think i replied to your questions on another thread yesterday. The Learning Centre is a great resource, even for experienced chicken keepers - loads of info on anything chicken. https://www.backyardchickens.com/atype/1/Learning_Center All the best CT
