What to do about the heat??

[Ilovemyladies!]

Any ideas on what to do for my chickens during this heat wave?

It's so hot!!

 

[Nicole01]

Our heat index has been 120 these past few days. I've never seen the weather so hot and muggy. Cool water in shallow tubs and pans, so they soak their feet or sit in the water helps. Frozen watermelon is very good. Electrolytes and vitamins in water help. A big fan in the coop or outside in the shade. Ice blocks or frozen jugs of ice. Although, they melt quickly. Plenty of shade. I actually brought mine inside and they've been living in my basement all week. They are really happy down there. I also wet down my run, so they lay in the muddy sand that's shaded. Good luck!

 

[littlestars17]

I keep their water icy cold(change it two or three times a day) give them lots of shady spots, Put some water in a low dish pan for them to walk through..freeze watermelon chunks(and other treats)

 

[trudye]

I installed a water misting system. Really helps in these extreme heated days and night. I run the misters from noon until about 6 or 7pm. That keeps the chicks cooler when the temps are the highest. Also, built a lean2 for extra shade and put excelsior material on it, then add more hay on top. The misters are overhead and the hay holds extra moisture for cooling.

 

[Karrie13]

We are hotter than normal here, heat index of 115. It has been miserable for all of us, human and animal. I give fresh cold water several times a day and overflow their water bowels (making mud for them), same for the ducks. Their swimming pool has been refreshed everyday during this heat when I normally only dump it every 3-4 days.

I also give them frozen watermelon and watermelon rinds. I have some frozen sweet corn that they get too. They REALLY love the watermelon!