Laying Hens - How to Prevent Heat Stress in the Summer
© buhanovskiy / Fotolia
High outdoor temperatures and a lack of cooling at night lead to a decline in performance in laying hen flocks. This often results in decreased egg production, lower egg weights, paler yolk colors, and reduced shell strength. You can take specific steps to prevent heat stress during the summer months. The optimal temperature for free-range hens is 18–22 °C. To prevent heat-related performance losses, several additional measures should be taken.
Adjust Your Posture
- If possible, schedule the light therapy session for the early morning hours.
- Check that the ventilation, watering, and feeding systems are working properly.
- Ventilate the room at regular intervals. Use additional fans as needed.
- Ensure the correct air velocity and increase the air volume based on the number of animals (0.7 m³ per kg of live weight per day).
- By humidifying the supply air, you can lower the barn temperature while simultaneously reducing dust.
Ensure adequate feed intake and adjust the ration
High temperatures in the summer often lead to a decrease in feed and water intake. This can quickly disrupt the supply of nutrients.
- Use a 30-minute lighting interval during the night to encourage additional food and water intake.
- Please allow access to the watering holes even at night.
- Avoid selective feeding by the animals. Optimal mixing and binding of the feed ensures a supply of essential vitamins, minerals, and trace elements.
- Support your circulatory system with additional doses of vitamin C and vitamin E.
- Pay special attention to ensuring excellent water quality and hygiene. The use of drinking water additives is particularly beneficial in the summer.
