ONGOING U.S. heat wave...

[FunnyBunny89]

I think my wading pool's sides were too high, I'll try again with a tray with shorter sides.

I used some flat, large rocks for the chickens to step on in the wading pool, and that got them to go in finally. The rocks are just tall enough to be submerged by about half an inch.

 

[Possum-Pie]

I used some flat, large rocks for the chickens to step on in the wading pool, and that got them to go in finally. The rocks are just tall enough to be submerged by about half an inch.

The girls have dug deep holes in their run. REALLY deep, so that they curl up in the hole and I guess it keeps them cooler. They still won't wade in the water....

 

[FunnyBunny89]

The girls have dug deep holes in their run. REALLY deep, so that they curl up in the hole and I guess it keeps them cooler. They still won't wade in the water....

Idk. It took mine a couple weeks to start wading. And they take turns on the flattest rock. But yeah, they also dig holes and lay in them. I spray the dirt multiple times a day during these super hot days because it dries up.

 

[Backyard lady]

So awhile back we were discussing heat and chickens. The eastern U.S. (and most of the rest of the U.S. has had HOT conditions this summer. We have had 40+ daysover 90 and many of those were 95+. I generally say don't worry, keep them hydrated with clean water and maybe some watermelon, and they will be fine. This summer, for the first time, I've been keeping an eye on them closer. First, any heat they will open their beaks and "pant" this is normal. Offer some kind of shade...We have some areas of all-day shade in their run, and often they are frolicking in the sun, but when hot, will retreat to the shade. Electrolytes is a touchy subject. Most poultry feed contains enough potassium and sodium to keep electrolyte balance even in very hot conditions. Don't give Gatorade...It isn't really healthy for humans, much less chickens. I offered a "wading pool" but none used it, just drank the water and wouldn't wade in it. Make sure your coop has GOOD ventilation... Chickens in a closed-up coop, giving off their own heat, will overheat quickly unless some ventilation is present.
I'm constantly amazed at the resiliency of domestic chickens, but they evolved in Southeast Asia/Vietnam area where it is always hot and humid.

We live in Texas. I have had temps of 115°. They free range our large backyard. When the heat arrived, I placed a soaker hose on the covered back patio. I coiled it around the entire shaded area. Turned it on low and let it run. They stand and even lay in the cool water. They will drink from the puddles. Whatever it takes. I get AC, so I figure I will do whatever it takes for them to be comfortable. Also I stopped giving corn scratch. I read an article that they produce more heat trying to digest scratch. Also ACV should be avoided during this time for the same reason. Just happy I’m growing watermelon and cantaloupes. A watermelon at my local grocery store was $7.99 .

 

[Backyard lady]

I think my wading pool's sides were too high, I'll try again with a tray with shorter sides.

Try a child’s snow sled. No kidding. Purchased off Amazon.

 

[Backyard lady]

Try a child’s snow sled. No kidding. Purchased off Amazon.

 

[Possum-Pie]

We live in Texas. I have had temps of 115°. They free range our large backyard. When the heat arrived, I placed a soaker hose on the covered back patio. I coiled it around the entire shaded area. Turned it on low and let it run. They stand and even lay in the cool water. They will drink from the puddles. Whatever it takes. I get AC, so I figure I will do whatever it takes for them to be comfortable. Also I stopped giving corn scratch. I read an article that they produce more heat trying to digest scratch. Also ACV should be avoided during this time for the same reason. Just happy I’m growing watermelon and cantaloupes. A watermelon at my local grocery store was $7.99 .

Our tomatoes are finally coming in fast and furious. I've canned 20+ quarts of tomato sauce yesterday and today. I take the seeds/pulp, some tomatoes, and throw them out for the girls. They love the seeds and pulp, and it offers liquid as a tomato is like 90% water. Our watermellons need about a week until ripe, but we always plant more than we need so they can get their share. When I put a watermelon out for them, the next day the only thing left is a THIN tough green skin. They eat everything else!!!

 

[Mrs. K]

I think I have a sled, and will try that. We were cool all of June, but hell hath no fury like July. Last few days a scorcher. Seems cooler today at 98 degrees.

Wet sand is good too. I am watering the sand tonight.