Working with Birds in Cold Weather

Keep an eye out for ICE

As much of the nation is feeling cold, careful attention should be made to protect all animals that may be exposed.  With poultry, this means that feet, combs and wattles of birds are sensitive to cold and can become frostbitten.  When this occurs, the tissue will die and fall away.  I commercial settings inlets must be properly adjusted so that air shoots towards the warm part of the room to temper and not directly on the birds.  In smaller settings, a heat lamp in the corner should be able to provide relief to birds who will adjust their temp by moving closer to the heat source.  These lamps should be hung by a metallic method such as cable or chain.  Avoid using rope to prevent failure and a bedding fire.  Fluffed long straw and hay can also offer a buffer to the cold in chicken coops and barns.  Be sure that water remains liquid to keep the birds properly hydrated.  Any water restriction during the day will restrict feed intake, so water needs to remain free-flowing.