Heat Stress in Poultry and Welfare

Heat stress is a major welfare problem for poultry in intensive production systems, causing suffering and significant economic losses globally.

Key Facts

Poultry are particularly susceptible to heat stress due to their lack of sweat glands
Temperatures above 32C cause significant welfare problems in commercial broiler chickens
Climate change is increasing the frequency of heat stress events in poultry facilities
Heat stress costs the US poultry industry over 300 million dollars annually
Modern fast-growing broiler breeds are particularly vulnerable to heat stress due to high metabolic rates

Welfare Considerations

Heat stress in poultry causes significant animal welfare suffering including panting, increased water consumption, decreased feed intake, and in severe cases, death. Modern broiler chickens with high metabolic rates from rapid growth are especially susceptible. Climate change is making heat stress events more frequent and severe. Mitigation options include improved ventilation, cooling systems, and breed selection favoring slower-growing birds with better heat tolerance. The welfare and economic costs of heat stress create alignment between industry interests and welfare improvement in this area.

What You Can Do

Support legislation requiring adequate ventilation and cooling in commercial poultry facilities
Advocate for welfare standards that account for thermal comfort of farm poultry
Support research into heat-tolerant slow-growing breeds with better welfare profiles
Reduce or choose higher welfare certified poultry products
Donate to organizations working on climate change and animal agriculture intersections