07/23/2026
For our friends who may have a few chickens we thought we'd share some ideas for to help during the extra hot days.
Hot weather can be hard on laying hens. Chickens don't sweat like people do, so they cool themselves mainly by panting. Here are simple ways to help them stay healthy and continue laying eggs during the hottest months:
Provide cool, fresh water at all times. Refill waterers several times a day, place them in the shade, and consider adding ice on very hot afternoons.
Give them plenty of shade. Trees, shade cloth, or a well-ventilated coop can make a big difference.
Increase airflow by opening coop vents or using a fan outside the coop to improve air movement (without blowing directly on the birds).
Offer cool treats in moderation, such as chilled watermelon, cucumber, zucchini, lettuce, or frozen peas. These help with hydration.
Feed during the cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or evening, since hens eat less during extreme heat.
Make sure they have access to a dry dust-bathing area. Dust baths help keep feathers clean and can aid in comfort.
Avoid overcrowding, as crowded birds become overheated more quickly.
Collect eggs more often, since high temperatures can affect egg quality.
Watch for signs of heat stress:
•Panting with an open beak
Wings held away from the body
•Lethargy or weakness
•Pale combs or wattles
•Refusing to eat or drink
If a hen appears overheated, move her to a cool, shaded area, offer cool (not ice-cold) water, and gently cool her feet and legs with cool water. Avoid using ice water directly on the bird, as rapid cooling can cause additional stress.
Remember that it's normal for egg production to decrease somewhat during prolonged periods of extreme heat. Once temperatures become milder, most healthy hens return to their normal laying pattern.
A fitting verse for caring for the animals God has entrusted to us is Proverbs 12:10 (ESV): "Whoever is righteous has regard for the life of his beast, but the mercy of the wicked is cruel."
We hope this helps, it has us and it's all part of the process.