Hens in the Heat

by | Jul 11, 2025 | Livestock, Poultry

Mature hen. Photo Credit: Abby Dickerson

Jewelynn Owens, a Lead for America Fellow, hosted in the UF/IFAS Extension Holmes County Office

We are entering the Dog Days of summer, and everyone is HOT, including your chickens!  On the hot summer days, chickens typically slow down laying eggs because they’re now using their energy to keep cool rather than producing eggs. How can we keep our chickens cool and maintain egg production?

Even chickens can suffer from heat-related stress, like heat stroke. Heat stress means your chickens are too hot. The normal body temperature of a chicken is 105°F–106°F, and chickens cannot sweat, making it difficult for them to regulate their body temperature in extreme heat. They require shade and fresh, cold water to help them stay cool. Rising temperatures and prolonged sun exposure can lead to dehydration and overheating.

–

Signs of Heat Stress and Heat Stroke in Chickens

  • Pale wattles
  • Pale or limp combs
  • Heavy panting
  • Slow-moving
  • Decreased appetite
  • Decreased egg production

–

Ways to Keep Chickens Cool

  • Cool, fresh water: chickens can drink 3X more water in the summer months then in winter. Hens needs consistent access to water to help keep them cool and water is required for egg production.
  • Make sure your coop has adequate shade with plenty of air flow and proper ventilation
  • Fans and misters can also be utilized to help keep your chickens cool in the summer
  • Ice or frozen treats are a great way to keep them cool. Freeze-cut up fruits in water – this can give your chickens entertainment and keep them cool for a while.
  • Make sure your chickens have adequate space in their coop to help keep them cool

–

 Egg Production will Slow Way Down

When the temperature reaches 85°F–90°F, you typically start to notice a decrease in egg production. In summer months, chickens spend their energy on keeping themselves cool instead of egg production. You can see up to a 20 – 45% decrease in egg production during these hot months. A major factor is water consumption. Even a short amount of time without cool, clean water can cause a hen to stop laying. Going without water for 24-36 hours can affect a chicken laying for several months after.  If the water temperature is too hot, a chicken will stop drinking because the water they are drinking is elevating their body temperature, adding to their heat stress. Another reason why cool, clean water is so important is that water is needed for good egg production. A standard-sized egg is about 70% water.

Rule of thumb when giving clean, cool water to your chickens is best to let the water hose run for a bit. Water hoses, buckets, and rain barrels left in the hot sun can become scorching hot! Cool, clean water is the key to success in the summertime! Even though it is normal for chicken to slow down egg production in the summer, providing ample of clean fresh water and keeping your hens cool you can still maintain adequate egg production.

Kalyn Waters
Latest posts by Kalyn Waters (see all)