Livestock

Heat Stress in Poultry and Climate Adaptation

Rising temperatures due to climate change are increasing heat stress risk in poultry, with significant welfare and production implications for the sector.

Key Facts

Broilers are particularly susceptible to heat stress due to rapid growth rates
Chronic heat stress reduces feed intake, growth, and immune function in poultry
Acute heat stress can cause mass mortality events in extreme weather
Ventilation systems are critical for temperature management in poultry houses
Climate change is expected to significantly increase heat stress frequency in UK poultry

Welfare Considerations

Heat stress in poultry causes panting, reduced activity, and in severe cases, cardiovascular collapse. Birds cannot effectively dissipate heat through sweating and rely entirely on respiratory cooling. Modern fast-growing broiler breeds are particularly vulnerable due to their high metabolic rates. Welfare-positive adaptation strategies include slower-growing breeds, improved ventilation, and access to outdoor shade.

What You Can Do

Support investment in welfare-positive climate adaptation for poultry farms
Advocate for building requirements that ensure adequate ventilation in poultry housing
Choose chicken from slower-growing breeds with greater heat tolerance
Support research into climate-resilient poultry farming systems
Engage with farm assurance bodies about heat stress standards in changing climate