Hi Hive,
Heat stress is real and is one of the most dangerous challenges in poultry farming, mostly in hot regions like Nigeria and to be precise in Ilorin Kwara state which is part of northern region and where temperatures usually can rise quickly during the day. If not properly managed, it can lead to severe losses in broiler production especially when they have already reached maturity age. Though I have experienced this often since I have been in this business for some years.
Today, the weather was extremely hot. The sun was intense, and the temperature inside my birds cage increased beyond what broilers could comfortably handle. Broiler chickens are very sensitive to heat because of their heavy body weight and rapid growth rate. They don’t sweat like humans since they don't sweating gland, so they mostly rely on panting to regulate their body temperature.
A friend of mine who is a first time broiler farmer through my guidance brought five remaining out of 50 birds to me this morning. Though he has discussed this with me before and I told him the heat usually disturb my birds because of the position my bird's cage and direction of the sun. After what I told him, I wasn't expecting him to bring his birds to me but he did and I could not turn him down since he is already at my place.
The reason why I don't want him to bring those birds is because of the heat and the fact that big broiler chicken can't really withstand heat. As I was checking on the birds this afternoon, I noticed one of them behaving abnormally. It was already weak, lying down, and not responding actively like the others birds. Its wings were slightly spread out, and it appeared to be struggling as well. Immediately, I suspected it's the outcome of heat stress since the sun is very intense today.
Heat stress happens when the body of an animal such as broiler chicken absorbs more heat than it can release. And common signs of heat stress in broiler chicken include panting (mouth opening for breathing), reduced movement, wings drooping and can collapse in severe cases. It can also leads to death, if not quickly treated.
I knew I had to act quickly.
Looking at the condition of the bird (as shown in the pictures), the bird was already at a critical stage. Its body was more than hot, and it had little strength left. I quickly carried the bird out of the cage to a cooler area with better airflow.
The first thing I did was to gently pour cool water over its body. Not ice-cold water, but moderately cool water to help bring down its body temperature gradually. I mainly focused on wetting the feathers, most especially under the wings and around the body where heat tends to build up.
There was little response at first, but I carefully continued and ensuring I didn’t shock the bird. After a few minutes, I started to noticed slight improvement. The chicken began to move a bit and lift its head up. That was a good sign.
I didn’t stop there.
I made sure the bird stayed in a shaded, well-ventilated area and ensured it had access to clean drinking water also. Gradually, the bird started regaining strength. Within some time, it was able to sit upright and eventually stand.
That moment was a huge relief for me. It reminded me how critical quick intervention is in poultry farming and can save bird's life.
From this experience, I want new broiler chicken farmers to take not of this important lessons:
First, prevention is better than cure. Always make sure your poultry house or cage is properly ventilated and position in shaded area. Ensure you provide enough space for each bird and avoid overcrowding.
Second, constant access to clean, cool and drinkable water is crucial. During hot weather, chickens drink more water, and dehydration can worsen heat stress.
Third, reduce heat inside the pen. You can do this by improving airflow, using shade, or even sprinkling water around the environment to cool it down.
Lastly, always observe your birds closely and always. Early detection can save lives.
Heat stress is real, and it can happen so quickly. But with the right knowledge and timely action, it can be managed effectively. I’m grateful I was able to save this particular bird, and it has made me more alert and prepared as a poultry farmer.
Farming is not just about feeding animals but it’s also about understanding them and responding to their needs at the right time.
Kindly come back again if you find my post useful. Thanks