With hot weather upon us, it’s time for layer operations to make sure they’re prepared to prevent heat stress. Best-case scenario: we prevent hens from overheating. Worst case: layers are heat stressed, leading to significant welfare and performance problems.

To properly prevent or manage heat stress, it’s imperative to understand how it occurs. A layer’s normal body temperature is about 105°F (40°C). Hens are comfortable with an ambient temperature of 65°F to 75°F (18°C to 24°C). When that temperature gets above 90°F (32°C), the more serious consequences of heat stress occur.