Heat Stress in Poultry Production

Heat stress kills millions of poultry annually and causes significant suffering; ventilation, cooling, and appropriate stocking density are the primary welfare interventions.

Key Facts

Poultry are highly susceptible to heat stress due to their limited thermoregulation ability
In the US, heat stress is estimated to cost the poultry industry over 1 billion dollars annually in mortality and production losses
Temperatures above 30C (86F) cause acute welfare impacts in chickens and turkeys
Modern high-density broiler breeds generate more body heat than heritage breeds, compounding the problem
Climate change is increasing the frequency and severity of heat stress events globally

Welfare Considerations

Heat stress causes a spectrum of suffering ranging from discomfort and suppressed feed intake to collapse and death. The welfare impact is compounded by high stocking densities that prevent birds from spreading out and by the metabolic heat generated by fast-growing breeds. Whole-house evaporative cooling, tunnel ventilation, and reduced stocking density in summer months are effective interventions. Climate adaptation planning that builds cooling infrastructure before extreme heat events is essential as average temperatures continue to rise.

What You Can Do

Support welfare certification programs with heat stress management requirements
Advocate for mandatory stocking density reductions during extreme heat events
Support research on heat-tolerant poultry genetics and low-heat-impact breeds
Choose poultry from farms with documented cooling systems and summer management protocols
Engage with climate adaptation planning to ensure animal welfare is included