Simple Hack Promises to Help Chickens Beat the Summer Heat

Got chickens in your backyard and a hot summer ahead? You may be worried about how to keep your little feathered friends nice and cool, but worry not! There is a simple hack, shared by TikTok creator SimplyChickens , that will help cool them off (and keep 'em) cool without too much of a problem!

Chickens are naturally better equipped to handle the cold than the heat, with their natural temps running from 105 to 107 degrees Fahrenheit. During the summer, their fluffy feathers can become more of a hindrance than a help, making it difficult for them to regulate their body temperature.

Related: 3 Simple Steps Improved My Chicken Flock Health and Egg Production

What Can Happen When Chickens Get Too Hot?

When temperatures soar, chickens can suffer from heat stress, which can have serious consequences if not addressed. Signs of heat stress include panting, spreading wings, watery or runny droppings, pale combs, thin eggshells, and decreased egg production. If you notice any of these signs in your flock, taking action quickly is important if you want to prevent further issues.

Now, how to cool them off. Simply says that she uses this hack even when the temps hit a hundred and up and it hasn't failed her yet. Get yourself a shallow dish or pan, some red clay bricks, and some ice cubes in water. Put your bricks in the bottom of the pan, then fill with cool water and ice overnight. This allows the bricks to absorb the ice water's coolness; from there, you will want to place the pan out where your chickens can get to it.

By providing a cool spot for your chickens to stand, you'll help them quickly lower their body temperature, reducing the risk of heat stress . This simple hack will not only keep your chickens comfortable but also helps make sure they remain healthy and productive throughout the summer. You can also add fans, and make sure that they have plenty of shade in well-ventilated spaces for additional comfort.

To wrap it up, keeping your chickens cool during the summer doesn't have to be complicated or expensive. By using a simple combo of cool water, ice cubes, and red clay bricks, you can create a refreshing oasis that will help keep your flock happy, healthy and safe all summer long. And remember, a cool chicken is a happy chicken!

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