Don’t let your hens lose their cool: 3 ways to battle the heat this summer

For many chicken keepers, summer means longer days, more time outdoors and baskets full of fresh eggs. But for hens, rising temperatures can quickly become uncomfortable – and in extreme heat, even dangerous.

According to long-time chicken keeper, breeder and author Brandelyn Tafoya, helping chickens cope with hot weather comes down to three essentials…

1. Keep Fresh Water Available at All Times

“Access to fresh water at all times is super important,” says Brandelyn. During hot weather, chickens can quickly become dehydrated, especially if their water warms up in the sun.

Top tips:

• Consider adding electrolytes during periods of extreme heat.

• Keep waterers in shaded areas whenever possible.

• Refresh water regularly throughout the day.

• Use the Omlet Insulated Chicken Waterer to help keep water cooler for longer.

Brandelyn also recommends offering frozen treats to encourage hydration and provide enrichment.

Why not try:

• Ice cubes with treats frozen inside
• Frozen fruit pieces
• Chilled veggies your flock already enjoys

2. Prioritise Coop Ventilation

“Airflow is also super important in the coop to keep them cool,” Brandelyn explains.

A poorly ventilated coop can quickly become hot and humid during summer, especially overnight. Good airflow helps remove warm air and allows fresh air to circulate around your flock.

Why ventilation matters:

• Reduces heat build-up inside the coop
• Helps prevent hot, humid conditions
• Keeps hens more comfortable overnight
• Encourages better air quality year-round

Omlet’s Eglu Chicken Coops are designed with twin-wall insulation and strategically placed ventilation points to help regulate temperatures and maintain airflow throughout the year.

3. Monitor Your Chickens’ Behaviour

One of the easiest ways to tell if chickens are struggling with the heat is to simply watch them. Signs your chickens may be too hot:

• Panting
• Holding their wings away from their body
• Lethargy
• Drooping posture
• Reduced activity
• Unusually quiet behaviour

If you notice these signs, provide extra shade, fresh cool water and electrolytes where needed.

What not to do

Unlike dogs, chickens don’t benefit from being sprayed with a hose or being submerged in water. Brandelyn says this can often cause unnecessary stress and do more harm than good. Instead, focus on the basics: cool water, airflow, shade and hydration support.

Bonus Tip: Choose Heat-Hardy Breeds

If you live in an area with consistently hot summers, breed selection can make a difference. “There are breeds that do handle the heat better than others,” Brandelyn says. Research breeds that are known for coping well in warmer climates before starting or expanding your flock.

Helping chickens stay comfortable in summer doesn’t have to be complicated. Fresh water, good ventilation and keeping an eye on your flock’s behaviur can go a long way towards preventing heat stress.

As Brandelyn puts it, preparation is key. By getting ahead of rising temperatures, you’ll help your hens stay healthy, comfortable and productive all summer long.

Keen for more tips from Brandelyn? Check out her free chicken-keeping guide.

This entry was posted in Chickens