Ventilation in Chicken Coops: Water Is Essential, But Can It Be Harmful?
Providing clean, free choice water 24/7 is the most essential aspect of management when keeping your poultry healthy.
As those of us in cold climates know very well, it is a challenge to keep water liquid during harsh winter temperatures.
Poultry will actually need more water in the winter because of the dry air.
There are many options for you to choose including:
- Hauling warm water multiple times a day and breaking ice
- Heated buckets and waterers
- Heated bases
- Keeping the coop above freezing
All these solutions have their benefits and drawbacks. Keep in mind that anything involving electricity provides a potential cause for shock and fire. Be safe!
Can water be potentially harmful?
Yes. Water, in vapor form from breath, evaporation from wet litter and water sources can cause unsafe conditions inside your coop.
It seems counterproductive to have a well-ventilated coop when you are trying to keep it warm, but this is one reason airflow is important.
High humidity in the coop can cause condensation and a wet environment causing these potential problems:
- Wet feathers that lose their ability to insulate; especially in fancy breeds (Silkies, Frizzles, etc)
- Icing on perches, windows, electrical outlets
- Frostbite on wet combs and wattles
- A breeding ground for bacteria and microorganisms that can cause disease
How can you tell if you have this problem?
Check windows for ice accumulation on the inside, this is a sign that the humidity in your coop is high.
Also, check your birds’ feathers for ice accumulation and to see if they feel wet. Birds who are wet will be cold and more susceptible to sickness.
Brave the cold. Keep water where it belongs, fresh liquid in your birds’ waterers!
Read more about the importance of airflow and ventilation in chicken coops