In the summer, laying hens are particularly vulnerable to heat stress, which can significantly impact their health and productivity. The ideal temperature for hens is between 13°C and 23°C. However, when temperatures rise above 30°C, they experience heat stress, leading to symptoms like heavy breathing, increased water consumption, reduced feed intake, lower egg production, thinner shells, and even higher mortality rates. To maintain high productivity during the hot season, effective management strategies are essential.
First, improving the chicken house environment is crucial. Enhancing roof and wall insulation helps reduce solar heat gain. Installing shade nets or awnings outside windows can prevent direct sunlight from entering. Regular cleaning of manure is important to minimize heat generated by waste. Proper ventilation is also key—vertical ventilation systems or increasing skylight areas can help circulate air more effectively.
To combat heat stress, increasing airflow within the house can significantly reduce thermal discomfort. A wind speed of 1–1.5 m/s can help chickens dissipate heat more efficiently. Spraying water in combination with ventilation can further lower temperatures through evaporation. However, it's important not to spray when wind speeds are too low, as this can hinder cooling. Wet curtains or misting systems can be installed to ensure a safe and comfortable environment for the birds.
Providing cool drinking water is another effective measure. Using groundwater or cooling water in pipes before feeding can help reduce heat stress. Painting the roof white or applying lime wash can reflect sunlight and lower internal temperatures. Planting trees or vines around the house can provide natural shade, while grass on the ground reduces radiant heat and improves air quality.
Adjusting feeding schedules can also help. Feeding hens more frequently during cooler parts of the day, such as early morning and late afternoon, encourages better feed intake. Reducing stocking density allows for better air circulation and less crowding, which is especially important in caged systems. Adjusting feed composition to include more energy-dense ingredients, such as fats and oils, while optimizing protein quality with amino acids like methionine and lysine, can meet nutritional needs without increasing body heat.
Supplementing feed with vitamin C (VC) at 10 kg/g or doubling the dose in severe cases can enhance resistance to heat stress. Sodium bicarbonate (0.2%) can help balance blood pH, while potassium chloride supports electrolyte balance. Probiotics or antibiotics may also be used to maintain gut health, as excessive water intake can dilute digestive fluids.
Summer brings an increased risk of diseases such as fowl cholera, E. coli, necrotic enteritis, coccidiosis, and Newcastle disease. Maintaining good hygiene, monitoring flock behavior, and implementing vaccination programs are essential to prevent outbreaks.
Some practical tips include using vitamin C in larger quantities during summer, avoiding mixing sodium bicarbonate with VC, and refraining from spraying water inside the house during peak heat. Spraying the roof instead can lower indoor temperatures by 3–4°C. Long-term use of baking soda should be avoided, as it may disrupt gut flora. Herbal preparations like ice mint can also be beneficial.
When treating heatstroke, combining VC with antibiotics like neomycin or colistin can help manage secondary infections. Always ensure proper ventilation and avoid overloading the system, especially in houses without electric fans. By following these steps, poultry farmers can protect their flocks and maintain optimal performance throughout the summer.
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