Q: How do you manage very hot days and cold nights with your chickens? Do they just adjust, or are there tips to help them?
–Winter
Don’t overthink.
Silkies and Pekins originated from China. Wyandottes are from the USA, Orpingtons and Sussex from the UK and many more breeds come from countries where temperatures drop below 0°C during winter. They have fluffy down feathers to keep them warm. That’s also why they moult before the start of winter ; to grow a fresh set of fluffy feathers so they’re ready for the cold. Those you see on social media using insulation, heaters and water warmers are usually in areas where it snows heavily, and they’re preventing the drinking water from freezing. That’s not the case here in Australia
As long as your chickens have a coop that’s protected from rain and wind ; a balanced diet, and clean water, no special care is required during winter in most parts of Australia. If chooks can’t thrive in an Australian winter – it’s probably not because of the cold. You might want to check for other factors that could be affecting their health, such as nutrition, general wellbeing, and more.
Summer
We do get over 40°C during summer every now and then. We selected our “Manor” location under tree canopy(at least partially) and took its position and aspect into account. So, they’re not in full sun all day. Some coops get sun in the morning then cool down, while others get sun in the afternoon. If you have a separate pens by breed like us, consider placing Mediterranean originated breeds on the sunnier side, fluffy breeds more on shaded side as they can overheat quicker.
We have a misting system that activates automatically when the forecast hits a certain temperature. (built & programmed by Chicken Daddy not bought product). It can run however long, often as we like. Generally for 3 minutes every 30 minutes or every hour, depending on how hot the day is.
We have shared our system on our facebook page. Misting system looks like this. (Click to view)
It really helps to cool things down as chickens can’t sweat, the can only cool down temperature by opening up wings, or through their feet.
However, please only use a misting system if your coop is well ventilated and the bedding drains easily. A misting system in a poorly ventilated coop with muddy ground doesn’t just create a sauna ; it also becomes the perfect environment for disease outbreaks. Bacteria love warmth and humidity and heat stressed chooks are more prone to any illness around.
Other Tips to Keep Chickens Cool in Hot Weather:
- Offer cold treats like watermelon, frozen corn, or mixed veggies for hydration and relief.
- Provide shelter with shade and good ventilation.
- Cool ground access helps -place a shallow dish of water with a clay brick inside for them to stand on.
- Keep drinking water cool – chickens will not drink if water is warm.
- Freeze a water bottle and place it in the waterer to keep it cool longer.
These simple steps can make a big difference to your chickens’ comfort and wellbeing during extreme heat. Always observe your flock on hot days -panting, holding wings away from the body, or reduced activity are signs they’re feeling the heat. A few thoughtful measures go a long way in keeping them happy, healthy, and safe through summer.
