Shade for Chickens

[dewdropsinwv]

I know I seen a thread on here some where about shade for chicks, but I can't find it now. Any suggestions for temporary shade?

 

[chfite]

I don't know what you have available, but most anyway you can make shade will do.

Chris

 

[shmccarthy]

Do you have any trees/bushes in your yard? Mine will sit in the shade under those on hot days. If you don't, you can build a makeshift shade area out of wood, tarps, or anything you want to build. It's really important to have a shaded area, that stay shaded a majority if not, the entire day. Other ways you can help keep them cool is using shallow kiddie pools that can walk, but not drown it. You can also give them treats like cold watermelon. I've heard of people freezing bottles of water, and putting them in the waterers to help keep them cool. I'm sure you'll find something you can use for shade to help keep the chickens cool. Good luck.

 

[Life is Good!]

Patio umbrella in sturdy stand (yes, I had a hen try to sit on TOP of the umbrella!). Put a brick or two on the stand, just for extra stability.

Four good sized (5') branches and a medium duty tarp - the one with the silver on one side. Put the silver side UP to reflect the sunlight. Whittle ends of branches until they fit into grommet holes on tarp. Push branches into ground at least 6" if possible. Use string or twine to stake it into the ground (more branches!). If you wish it to drain water, push one side of branches deeper into the ground than the other - to make a 'slope' so the rain will drain the way you want it to go.

Large (square is better) planter or bucket or brooder tub or rain-barrel with a hole in it tipped on it's side so the top is the 'door'. Lay it so the 'back' or bottom is towards the south - which will cast a bit more shade than any other way.

A left-over scrap of wood (pallet?) - a 2x10 or a 1x12 leaned up against a log - both shade underneath and a ramp to play on on top!

A pallet with a 2x4" scrap screwed to the edge to make a 'teepee' type shape.

A plastic chair or side table - doubles as a place for you to sit also!

Ok, get the drift? Doesn't have to be expensive, or store bought or even stuff you don't already have on hand - just something to provide a bit of cover for your girls!

 

[dewdropsinwv]

I am probably going to get a small wading pool for them and put about an inch of water in it for them to walk in. My hubby, made a small table for shade, I use it to sit on when I feed them their snacks in the evenings.

 

[Eggcessive]

They sell shadecloth at Lowes in the pet department, sometimes in the garden center at Walmart, and online. It is the stuff that goes over dog kennels, and will let air circulate while providing shade. You can tie it up on sides of your fence or run to keep them cool.

 

[dewdropsinwv]

Thanks for the tip!!!! I'll let my hubby know!