The NFU has urged poultry producers to make heat stress prevention part of routine management procedures as hot weather is forecast across parts of the UK over the coming days.
Temperatures are now forecast to reach at least 39°C in places on Wednesday and Thursday, with the Met Office issuing a Red Extreme Heat Warning for parts of central and southern England and Wales.
The UKHSA has also issued red heat-health alerts for the East and West Midlands, East of England, London, the South East and South West, with amber alerts in place for the North East, North West and Yorkshire and the Humber.
The union said poultry keepers should closely monitor environmental conditions inside poultry buildings and ensure appropriate measures are in place before birds are caught, loaded or transported.
Producers are advised to follow the specific hot weather guidance available on GOV.UK, with poultry welfare codes also recommending the use of current government resources.
Management key
NFU Senior Veterinary Adviser Claire White said high temperatures could quickly create welfare and productivity risks if not managed.
“With high temperatures forecast, it is important for all poultry producers to ensure their ventilation systems are in working order and, where fitted, popholes are fully utilised to increase air flow,” she said.
Ms White added that misting systems may help reduce temperatures inside poultry housing where available, but should be monitored carefully to avoid increasing humidity.
Heat stress
The NFU is also reminding producers to watch for early signs of heat stress in birds. These can include lethargy, open-mouth breathing and birds holding their wings away from the body.
“If unmanaged, heat stress can rapidly progress to weakness and death,” she said. “Heat stress will also impact productivity in birds, with reduced consumption which may affect growth rates and egg production.”
Producers should also remain alert to air quality risks during hot weather, including increased ammonia odour, and ensure CO2 meters are operating correctly. Birds affected by high CO2 levels may appear drowsy or lethargic.
Transport
For businesses with birds due to travel, the NFU said early communication with processors is essential so that appropriate welfare measures can be agreed. These may include reduced stocking rates and scheduling catching and loading during the coolest parts of the day.
The union also stressed that suitable facilities must be provided for catching teams.
Vehicle drivers are trained and required to manage ventilation and cooling during transport, including by reducing stocking rates in certain modules and opening trailer curtains where appropriate.
White warned that legal responsibilities remain in place during hot weather.
“It is an offence to transport, or cause the transport, of animals in conditions that may cause unnecessary suffering, and those responsible may be subject to regulatory and enforcement action,” she said.
