Keeping chickens cool in summer heat

Signs a hen is too hot

• Panting with an open beak.
• Wings held out away from the body.
• Sitting still, lethargic, or not eating.
• Pale comb and wattles.
• Fewer eggs, or thinner shells.

Some panting on a warm afternoon is normal. A hen that is stumbling, unresponsive, or lying down needs help right away.

How to keep the flock cool

• Shade. Make sure part of the run is shaded all afternoon. A tarp or shade cloth works.
• Airflow. Open vents and windows, covered with hardware cloth. A coop that feels stuffy at night is too hot.
• Cool water, and plenty of it. Add a second waterer in the shade and refill with cool water in the afternoon. Some keepers add poultry electrolytes during heat waves; follow the label.
• Frozen treats in moderation. Chilled watermelon, cucumber, or a block of ice in a shallow pan.
• A shallow damp area. Some hens like standing in a wet, shaded patch of soil.
• Go easy on scratch grains in the heat; layer feed should still be most of the diet.
• Do chores early. Avoid chasing or handling birds in the afternoon.

If a hen overheats

Move her to a shady, cool spot and offer cool (not ice-cold) water. Wetting her legs and feet with cool water can help. Do not dunk her whole body. Call a vet who treats poultry if she does not improve quickly.

Plan ahead for next summer

If your summers are hot, choose breeds that handle heat well. The breed comparison table rates heat tolerance, and the housing guide covers coop ventilation.