Keeping Chickens Cool in the Summer: Tips for Happy Hens
British summers can be a bit unpredictable. One minute you’re pulling on a jumper, the next you’re wondering if your hens might like to borrow your sun hat. While most chickens can cope with a bit of warmth, those long, hot spells can cause them real stress if we don’t step in to help. Overheating can lead to dehydration, reduced egg laying, and in extreme cases, serious health problems. The good news is that with a little planning and some clever tricks, you can keep your flock happy and comfortable when the temperature rises.
Do Chickens Struggle in the Heat?
Chickens don’t sweat like humans do, so when it gets hot, they have to rely on panting and holding their wings out to help release heat. This works to a point, but in prolonged heatwaves, it can become a real challenge for them. Older hens, heavy breeds like Orpingtons, and hens with very dark plumage can be more susceptible to heat stress. Even in the UK, where we’re not exactly known for tropical weather, we’ve seen enough hot spells in recent years to make summer planning a must for any chicken keeper.
Spotting the Signs of Heat Stress in Chickens
Knowing when your hens are struggling is half the battle. Keep an eye out for:
- Panting or breathing with an open beak
- Holding wings away from their bodies
- Looking lethargic or standing still in the shade
- Reduced appetite or water intake
- A sudden drop in egg production
If you notice these signs, it’s time to act quickly to help them cool down.
Provide Plenty of Shade
Shade is your hens’ first line of defence against the summer sun. Make sure they have access to shaded spots throughout the day, as the sun’s position changes. Trees and shrubs are perfect natural shelters, but you can also rig up temporary tarpaulins, garden parasols, or even old sheets to create shaded areas. If you use a fixed run, consider covering part of it with shade cloth so there’s always a cooler retreat.
Keep the Water Fresh and Cool
Fresh, cool water is essential in hot weather. Check drinkers regularly throughout the day and top them up as needed. In very hot spells, adding a few ice cubes to the water can help keep it cooler for longer. Place extra water stations in different parts of the garden or run, so there’s no crowding or competition. Shallow trays of water can also be offered for them to paddle in if they’re curious enough, though not all hens will go for it.
Ventilate the Coop
A stuffy chicken coop on a summer night is no fun for your hens. Make sure there’s plenty of ventilation to allow hot air to escape and cooler air to circulate. Keep windows and vents open, but ensure they’re still predator-proof with mesh. In wooden coops, you might consider adding extra vents if airflow is poor. Avoid placing bedding too deep in summer, as it can trap heat.
Cool Treats Chickens will Love
Summer is the perfect excuse to spoil your flock with some refreshing snacks. Chilled watermelon is a big hit with most hens and provides extra hydration. Frozen peas or sweetcorn can be scattered for them to peck at, giving them a fun activity and a cool nibble. Just remember that treats should only make up a small part of their diet, so don’t go overboard.
Change Your Routine
In very hot weather, it can help to adjust your hens’ routine. Let them out earlier in the morning to make the most of the cooler hours, and try to encourage rest in the shade during the hottest part of the day. Evening is a good time to offer a final feed and check everyone’s looking lively before bedtime.
Dust Baths in the Shade
Dust bathing is more than just a chicken spa day – it helps keep them clean, parasite-free, and cool. Make sure their dust bath area is in a shaded spot during summer, or move a favourite container into the shade. You can add a little dry soil, sand, or diatomaceous earth to keep it fresh and inviting.
Frozen Water Bottles and Cold Tiles
A handy trick for smaller runs or enclosed spaces is to freeze large bottles of water and place them where your hens like to rest. They’ll naturally gravitate towards the cooler area. Similarly, paving slabs or tiles chilled in the shade can give them a cool place to stand.
Keep Feed Dry and Fresh
Hot weather can make feed spoil more quickly, especially if it’s stored in direct sunlight. Keep feeders in the shade and avoid overfilling, topping up little and often instead. This helps keep the feed fresh and reduces waste.
Stay Calm and Keep Chickens
It’s easy to panic when you see your hens panting, but with these steps in place, most will cope perfectly well with a British summer. The key is providing shade, ventilation, and plenty of cool, fresh water, while keeping a close eye out for signs of distress. A few simple adjustments to their environment and routine can make a huge difference to their comfort and wellbeing.
If you’ve been thinking of starting your own flock but have worried about summer care, don’t let the warmer months put you off. With the right setup and a little daily attention, your chickens will take summer in their stride – and reward you with eggs, entertainment, and that unbeatable chicken-keeper satisfaction.
At Pipinchick, we celebrate the joy of chicken keeping and the simple pleasure of raising a happy, healthy flock. By providing a natural environment, a nutritious diet, and plenty of opportunities for foraging, you’ll be rewarded with happier hens—and the best-tasting eggs you’ve ever had.
Our live chickens are for sale online, and Pipnchick are the UK’s number one most trusted pet poultry provider. We deliver happy, healthy chickens safely to your door. All our chickens are reared lovingly by us on our farm in the beautiful Chew Valley, just outside Bristol. Our breeds include Silkies, Bantams, and pure breed chickens as well as a whole range of high quality chicken keeping supplies.
