Winter chickens must be alert to four main points

Winter chickens must be alert to four main points

1. Harmful Gases: Among all the gases that can harm chickens, ammonia is the most dangerous. It irritates their eyes, nose, and respiratory system, leading to breathing difficulties, increased susceptibility to diseases, and reduced feed conversion efficiency. If you can smell ammonia when entering the chicken house, it means the concentration has already exceeded safe levels. In houses heated with coal stoves, carbon monoxide poisoning is a serious risk. When harmful gases become excessive, immediate action should be taken, such as improving ventilation, replacing the bedding, or using air purifiers, to reduce the negative impact on the flock. 2. Temperature and Insulation: Hens perform best in egg-laying conditions when the temperature is around 20°C. The minimum acceptable temperature should not drop below 13°C. If the temperature inside the house is too low or fluctuates too much, artificial heating methods like heat lamps, space heaters, or even smoke from controlled fires should be used. The goal is to maintain a stable and comfortable environment for the hens, preventing stress and health issues caused by extreme temperature changes. 3. Ventilation: During winter, people often focus only on keeping the house warm and neglect proper ventilation. However, poor air quality can lead to respiratory problems and decreased productivity. When the air inside becomes stale, dirty, or smelly, it's time to increase ventilation. This should be done gradually, ideally during the warmer midday hours, and in short bursts rather than one long session. Multiple small ventilation periods are more effective. If you notice chickens snoring or breathing heavily, or if the air is dusty and smelly, it’s a clear sign that ventilation is urgently needed. To avoid drafts, it's common to install elbow-shaped ventilators on the leeward side of the walls, so the birds aren't directly exposed to cold air. 4. Humidity: The ideal relative humidity for a chicken house is between 60% and 70%. Too high humidity promotes the growth of bacteria and fungi, which can worsen the effects of cold temperatures. On the other hand, low humidity makes the environment dry, increasing the risk of respiratory issues, especially in young chicks. Prolonged exposure to dry conditions can cause dehydration and weaken the immune system. Therefore, maintaining proper humidity levels is essential. In winter, the litter tends to be drier, so regular misting or spraying with water (and disinfectant if needed) helps keep the environment healthy and comfortable for the birds.

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