How Can I Keep My Chickens Cool in the Heat?

   When temperatures heat up in the summer, and depending on where you live, it is very important that you take steps to keep your chickens cool. Your flock depends on you to take the right steps to keep them healthy and safe when the temperatures go up. Thankfully, there are a number of things that you can do to help keep your chickens cool and beat the heat!
   Rural Living Today offers the following information on how to keep your chickens cool in the heat:

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Chicken’s shelter and environment

• Shade: They will need shade, even something temporary, as their coop alone is not sufficient. Supply them with shade in a well-ventilated area, even if it’s makeshift. You can purchase a shade tent, a shade sail, or rig something with tarps or sheets.
• Ventilate the coop: Consider a window that’s safe from predators and a fan.
• Misting system: Depending on long the hot season is, it may be worth it to consider installing a misting system, even for a small area. If you want something less expensive and less permanent, buy a misting attachment for your hose and prop it up for cool relief.
• Clean the coop: Bacteria multiples faster in the heat. Keep your chickens clean, cool and comfortable.

Other tips for the heat

• Kiddie pool: Keep a small pool in the shade.  Fill it up with just an inch or two of water so the chickens stay safe. Add ice cubes throughout the day. The chickens will enjoy being able to come and go as they please.
• Check in: Check on the chickens at least twice a day during extreme temperatures. Be sure to watch for signs of heat exhaustion and heat stress in chickens."

        For addititional tips on keeping your chickens cool see How to Keep Chickens Cool in the Summer Heat - Tips for Beginners