Climate change is increasing the frequency and intensity of heat waves, creating acute welfare crises for chickens, turkeys and other poultry in intensive housing.
Poultry are highly vulnerable to heat stress due to their physiology and the environments in which they are kept. During extreme heat events, birds in poorly ventilated or overcrowded housing can suffer and die within hours. Climate adaptation must include better building insulation, emergency ventilation capacity, and reduced stocking densities.