Managing heat stress – Part 2 – Adequate housing optimises performance

Many obstacles need to be overcome when managing intensive poultry production, such as heat stress. This limits the realisation of the genetic potential of the birds. Chickens can adapt to high temperatures to some extent; however, when temperatures exceed 41°C, drastic measures will need to be taken in order to avoid mortality due to heat stroke. By Viola Holik, Lohmann Tierzucht, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania Strains of laying hens that are superior in moderate climates have no problem adapting to