Heat is the constant companion of tropical poultry farming — and its silent adversary. When the temperature rises, a bird eats less, drinks more, grows more slowly, and struggles with even the slightest additional stress. Here are concrete strategies to help your birds get through the hottest periods.
Water, the Primary Anti-Heat Weapon
A bird that is hot compensates by drinking. Your absolute priority: clean, fresh water available without competition, at all times. Place drinkers in the shade, refresh the water rather than allowing a stagnant pool to warm up, and increase the number of drinking points so that each bird can access it easily. Water heated by the sun drastically reduces consumption at the worst time.
Ventilation and Shade: Working with the Building
A well-oriented and well-ventilated building makes a huge difference. Encourage natural air circulation without creating direct drafts on young birds, clear the surroundings of the building, and utilise shade — vegetation, roof overhangs, nets. Ventilation is also part of the four categories of poultry equipment offered by NEXTEKCI, alongside feeders, drinkers, and heating equipment.
Feeding During Cooler Hours
Digestion produces heat. During very hot periods, poultry naturally eat better early in the morning and late in the day. Schedule your feedings for these cooler hours and avoid stressing the flock — handling, sorting, transfers — during the hottest times.
Breeds Tailored for the Tropical Climate
Genetics matters. The entire NEXTEKCI range is produced in Agnibilékrou with breeders selected for their adaptability to the West African tropical climate. Coloured breeds — red broiler, barred grey, hybrid — are known for their hardiness in the heat; the white broiler type Cobb 500, which is more demanding, requires a better-controlled building. It is also to limit heat stress that NEXTEKCI transports take place at night, with departures at 10 PM and ventilated boxes.
Is your flock suffering from the heat, or are you unsure about the breed suitable for your area? Describe your situation to WhatsApp Infos NEXTEKCI: +225 05 44 83 27 79. To order chicks suitable for the Ivorian climate: +225 07 07 72 78 67.