Chicken Licken's warning of a falling sky isn't just a children's tale - it offers insights into the happiness of hens, according to Arthur Parkinson.
In the warmer months, farmers keeping hens face a series of challenges, including heat stress, disease risks, and ensuring adequate nutrition, hydration, and space for the birds. One solution that can help mitigate these issues is the provision of overhead shelter.
Key Challenges
Heat Stress
Rising temperatures and strong sunlight can cause hens to overheat, which lowers egg production and increases mortality risk. Hens need shade and cool shelter to regulate body temperature.
Disease Risks
Spring brings a heightened risk of avian influenza spread via wild migrating birds, which can infect flocks if exposed outdoors. Overhead shelter and enclosed spaces help reduce contact with wild birds and contaminated droppings.
Nutrition and Hydration
Hens require a balanced diet with supplemental layer feed, especially when free-ranging on pasture in summer, as natural food sources alone may not meet their needs. Maintaining clean water and feeding areas is essential to prevent illness.
Space and Social Stress
Hens need at least 2 square feet of coop floor per bird to avoid overcrowding, which can cause aggression, feather picking, and disease.
How Overhead Shelter Helps
Provides Shade
Overhead shelter reduces heat stress and protects hens from intense sun during hot days in spring and summer.
Protects from Rain and Wind
Creating a stable environment that reduces stress and illness risk.
Improves Biosecurity
Limiting direct exposure to wild birds and contaminants, thereby lowering the chance of virus introduction like avian influenza.
Creates a Comfortable Space
Where hens can spread their wings and move freely, helping prevent behavioral issues linked to overcrowding.
In Summary
Overhead shelter is a practical way to mitigate heat, weather, and biosecurity challenges for hens in spring and summer, supporting their health and productivity through these critical seasons.
Domestic Chickens and Their Environment
Domestic chickens are often scared of the open sky, a trait inherited from their wild ancestors. To create a conducive environment, chickens need a good mixture of woody shrubs, soft fruit, and roses.
Modern innovations like the use of smart fabric stretched over metal frames by companies like Cacklebean provide effective protection for flocks from the elements.
Arthur Parkinson, a gardener, writer, and broadcaster, has made significant contributions to the field. Trained at the Royal Botanical Gardens, Kew, he is the author of four books, including 'Flower Yard: Growing Flamboyant Flowers in Containers'. Parkinson has also worked for Sarah Raven and as the head gardener at the Emma Bridgewater factory garden.
- In the realm of home-and-garden, incorporating overhead shelter for domestic chickens can be beneficial, as it offers a conducive environment that helps mitigate heat and weather challenges, improving their health and productivity.
- Gardening enthusiast and professional Arthur Parkinson, trained at the Royal Botanical Gardens, Kew, has advocated for the use of overhead shelter for chickens, recognizing its value in providing a suitable environment for these birds.
