[Maison Lammonite]

Hi all

According to the forecast, temperatures were 35 today, but slightly pessimistic as I measured over 40 Deg C with two thermometers for several hours in the shade this afternoon.

There is plenty of shade from trees & a good supply of fresh water, the chickens diddnt seem too bothered but we did notice Sebastian holding his wings slightly out to keep cool

So my question is: does anyone have any warm weather tips for chickens, or is there anything to look out for?

TIA

N

[Lindeggs]

Gosh 40 deg C is certainly warm!  I haven't had to deal with temperatures like that, but those are the kinds of things Australians have to deal with on a regular basis so I've read quite a few tips from them.  Here are some:

Always make sure they have access to cool water.  You might need to change the water a few times a day or add ice cubes or a single big block of ice that will melt during the day.
Freeze containers of water.  Put them in shady areas around the garden.  Sometimes hens will sit close to (or on!) the containers to help them cool down.
Put shallow paddling-pools around the garden.  Some hens will walk in the water to cool their feet.  Wid, shallow plant saucers are ideal.
Feed some of their favourite food frozen or chilled.  For example freeze a courgette or pieces of watermelon or chill their favourite mash.
If it's hot at night, create air movement in the coop (you may need to replace some solid panels with wire mesh to get a cross-breeze). 
If it's very hot at night, hang a damp sheet or towel inside the coop, near the entrance.  As the breeze blows over it, the evaporation will cool the air in the coop.

[Maison Lammonite]

Hi

I will try out your suggestions to see what they like, thankfully, its not too hot at nights, but will bear the ventilation idea in mind

Thank you very much, your reply appreciated

N

[Lindeggs]

Oh as for the second part of your question (what to look out for) you have spotted one of them already - they will sit in the shade with their wings out to cool off.  You will also see an over-heated bird breathing with its beak open as if it is panting.

Another thing the Aussies say is not to feed whole grains in very hot weather - you're better to feed something that's easier to digest, like pellets, mashes or cracked/ground grains.

[Maison Lammonite]

Hi

Yes, I did notice them panting now and again, thankfully the hot spell ended but we will take action with ice cubes, cool water & feed as July & August get quite warm
Many thanks again for your replies

N