10 Ways to Keep Chickens Cool During the Summer

Believe it or not, chickens are far better at dealing with the cold than they are at dealing with the heat! Temperatures over 90 degrees Fahrenheit can increase the chance of health issues in your flock. If a chicken is experiencing heat stress, they will stand with their wings out, pant, act lethargic, and display a decrease in appetite. Luckily, there are many ways that you can help keep chickens cool and comfortable during the heat this summer, preventing heat stress and other illnesses alike. Keep reading to learn more!

1. Give your chickens plenty of cold water. You may need to refresh the water a few times a day, or add ice cubes to cool it back down. Some chicken owners even add electrolytes to their water, which will encourage your chickens to drink more!

2. Ensure that shade is available. If your coop is not well-shaded, consider hanging shade cloth in the area. While your chickens are out and about, make sure they have access to bushes or trees that will provide some protection from the sun.

3. Add fans to your coop. A fan designed for outdoor/agricultural use might be a nice addition. Consider something that is small and solar-powered, such as this DestinyBliss Solar Panel Powered Fan Mini Ventilator.

4. Use misters or sprinklers. Misters are best for a coop/run area. If your chickens free range, consider turning your sprinklers on while they roam around!

5. Set up a kiddie pool. This sounds silly, but a kiddie pool filled with a couple inches of water is a great way to cool your chickens down. They will love to dip their feet in and splash around!

6. Give your chickens cold fruits and vegetables. You could try frozen corn or chopped strawberries, which are always a hit! Watermelon is another great choice, as it has a high water content and will help to keep your chickens hydrated.

7. Provide a dust bath by filling a tub with fine dirt or sand. Chickens often dust bathe to keep themselves cool, but this will also help to keep their feathers clean and prevents parasites.

8. Dip your chicken in water. This is the best solution for a chicken that is actively displaying symptoms of heat stress, and could even save their life. You can submerge your chicken in room temperature water for a couple of minutes, but only up to the base of their neck! Once your chicken is removed from the water, the evaporation of it will help to cool them down. Avoid dipping your chicken in cold water, as the sudden change in temperature can surprise them and make them even more uncomfortable.

By utilizing the tips above, your chickens are sure to have a pleasant and healthy summer. If at any point you suspect that your chicken has become ill from the heat, contact your veterinarian for the best course of action.