Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
Frostbite can turn a splendid comb into a stubby one and can reduce a rooster's fertility.
Prevention
Don't let the hands-off rule keep you from being proactive. If you're aware of a severe
cold spell approaching your region, cover your flock's combs and wattles with petro-
leum jelly. This application prevents some heat loss once the cold snaps. Petroleum jelly
can also be applied after frostbite to aid in the healing process.
Heat Sickness
Extreme heat is another weather condition that kills fowl, particularly if there is little
air movement and the humidity is high. I witnessed temperatures greater than 105°F
(40.5°C) in the arid West with no poultry loss. Even in this scorching weather, the flock
did fine because humidity levels were low and the birds had a shady escape.
Here in Iowa, heat losses can occur when it is only 90°F (32°C) when humidity is
high and the air is still. It's difficult to point to one temperature and one humidity read-
ing as a threshold, as numerous factors play a role in heat sickness, including the breed.
For poultry to survive intense heat, they need moving air — supplied by fans if neces-
sary — plenty of cold fresh water, and shade from the sun.
Shipping Stress
Shipping stress is perhaps the most common health-related condition found in shipped
day-old poultry. The condition is often misdiagnosed as being anything but what it really
is. A detailed discussion can be found in chapter 4 , Baby Basics.
Egg Eating
Hens that are too tightly confined and not provided a balanced diet sometimes begin to
eat their own and other hens' eggs. They seek out eggs and break them to get at the yolk,
a habit that appears to be addictive.
Resolving the condition involves locating the hen that is eating the eggs and separat-
ing her as quickly as possible. If you don't do this immediately, others will join in soon,
and before you know it an entire pen of hens are breaking and eating eggs.
“FREEZE-PROOF” CHICKENS AND FROSTBITE
AVOIDANCE
If you live in an area where you experience weather that dips below zero (-17°C)
on a regular basis, and you do not have heated or insulated facilities, choose your
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