Summer Chicken Care: Keeping Your Flock Safe and Comfortable in the Heat

Oklahoma summers can be brutal—and your chickens feel it too. Without the right precautions, extreme heat can lead to heat stress, lower egg production, or even death. Thankfully, a few proactive steps can keep your flock cool and thriving during hot months.

☀️ Signs of Heat Stress in Chickens

Keep an eye out for:

• Panting or open-mouth breathing

• Holding wings away from the body

• Lethargy or reduced appetite

• Pale combs or wattles

🌡️ Tips to Beat the Summer Heat

1. Provide Plenty of Fresh, Cool Water

Refill waterers frequently and keep them shaded. Add ice cubes to the water on especially hot days.

2. Offer Shade and Airflow

Our coop designs include ventilation and shaded interiors. Still, your flock will also need access to a shaded run or trees during peak sun hours.

3. Add Electrolytes or Frozen Treats

Boost hydration with poultry-safe electrolytes or frozen fruits like berries and watermelon cubes.

4. Limit High-Energy Feed

Too much corn or scratch in the heat can raise body temps. Stick to layer feed and cool treats.

🧊 How LynnLee Coops Help in the Heat

• Elevated design improves airflow beneath the floor

• Cedar siding resists heat retention

• Optional solar fans or ventilation upgrades can improve circulation

• Walk-in access lets you easily clean or refresh bedding more frequently in hot weather

🐔 Bonus Tip: Dust Baths

Chickens cool themselves and deter mites by taking dust baths. Make sure they have a dry, shady spot with loose dirt or add a dust bath box.

Summer Doesn’t Have to Be Stressful

With a little planning—and the right coop design—you can keep your flock safe, happy, and productive even in triple-digit temps.

Need to upgrade your coop before the heat spikes?
Visit www.lynnleecoops.com, message us on Facebook or Instagram, or call us at 918-212-4748.