What is heat stress? Heat stress can be defined as a condition caused by high temperatures especially when combined with high relative humidity and low air speed. It occurs because the birds’ core body temperature increases to fatal temperatures because of poor heat loss and limited coping means. What are the immediate signs of heat stress in poultry? Panting and laboured breathing. Pale combs and wattles. Birds lifting wings away from the body, and squatting closer to the ground. Lethargy, a general lack of energy and enthusiasm. Seizures, convulsions and staggering. Thirst increases due to the huge loss of electrolytes, wet droppings/ diarrhoea may also be more visible. What effect does heat stress have on poultry? Heat stress in poultry can be a serious threat to the birds overall productivity. The following resultant effects may be felt; A drop in production and in extreme cases an increase in mortality rates in a flock. Reduced growth rates, because the birds
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