Triple digit afternoons are tough on laying hens, but you can take measures to make sure you’re keeping backyard chickens cool. High temperatures can stress hens, lead to reduced egg production, and even pose health risks if not properly addressed. However, a few simple strategies can make all the difference in keeping your flock comfortable and productive.

Provide at least two inches of cool, fresh water per bird each day, and swap metal drinkers for plastic to keep temps down. Freeze jugs of water and float them in stock tubs for a DIY chiller, or add electrolytes from the feed aisle to replace salts lost to panting.

Aim sprinklers at the run’s roof instead of the birds to create evaporative cooling without drenching feathers. Shade cloth rated 70 % or higher over the coop drops interior temps by 10 °F – a lifesaver in San Angelo or College Station.

Offer high moisture treats such as chilled melon rinds after sunrise sharps to boost hydration. Finally, bump calcium by 0.5 % in feed during heat waves; shells thin as hens drink more and eat less. A few inexpensive tweaks keep eggs – and hens – coming straight through a Texas August.

With these strategies, you can keep your chickens healthy and productive, even through the sweltering days of summer. Arcola Feed can also help you with keeping backyard chickens cool – visit us for supplements, feeds and supplies!