1. With hot weather upon us, it’s time for layer operations to make sure they’re prepared to prevent heat stress.
2. Best-case scenario: We prevent hens from overheating.
3. Worst case: Layers are heat stressed, leading to significant welfare and performance problems.
4. A layer’s normal body temperature is about 105° F (40° C).
5. Hens are comfortable with an ambient temperature of 65° F to 75° F (18° C to 24° C).
6. When that temperature gets above 90° F (32° C), the more serious consequences of heat stress occur.
7. In one study, heat stress was associated with a 31.6% reduction in feed conversion,
8. a 36.4% reduction in egg production
9. and a 3.41% reduction in egg weight, according to a review article from Purdue University and USDA’s Agricultural Research Service.
10. We will discuss series of summer management tips daily.
By-Dr V. Rajendra Prasad,
Poultry consultant, Hyderabad
