As the days get longer and temperatures start to rise, early spring is an exciting time for chicken and poultry keepers. However, the season also comes with unique challenges—temperature fluctuations, increased moisture, and the arrival of new chicks. Whether you’re raising backyard chickens or managing a larger flock, here’s how to keep your poultry healthy and thriving this spring.
Spring can bring unpredictable weather, from chilly mornings to warm afternoons. Sudden temperature swings can stress poultry, so it’s important to ensure their environment remains stable.
Seasonal Transition Tips:
- Keep coops well-ventilated but free from cold drafts.
- Gradually increase outdoor time for birds that were kept inside during winter.
- Watch for signs of cold stress in young or molting birds.
- Provide plenty of dry bedding to prevent dampness from spring rains.
Winter conditions can leave coops damp and dirty. A deep spring clean helps prevent disease and pests from taking hold.
Spring Coop Cleaning Checklist:
- Remove old bedding and scrub surfaces with a mild disinfectant.
- Check for leaks and repair any damage from winter storms.
- Clean nesting boxes and add fresh straw or shavings.
- Inspect feeders and waterers for cracks or mold.
- Apply diatomaceous earth or poultry-safe pest control to prevent mites and lice.
With more access to fresh foraging, your flock’s diet may shift in early spring. However, it’s essential to maintain balanced nutrition to support egg production and feather health.
Spring Feeding Tips:
- Continue offering a high-quality layer feed with adequate calcium.
- Supplement with oyster shells or crushed eggshells to strengthen eggshells.
- Provide extra protein for molting birds or those recovering from winter.
- Offer fresh greens and garden scraps, but avoid toxic foods like onions and avocado.
As temperatures rise, chickens will drink more water. Clean, fresh water is essential for digestion, egg production, and overall health.
Watering Tips:
- Clean waterers daily to prevent algae and bacteria buildup.
- Check for leaks and ensure automatic waterers are functioning properly.
- Offer electrolytes to young chicks or birds recovering from stress.
- Prevent puddles in the run to avoid muddy, unsanitary conditions.
As daylight increases, hens naturally ramp up egg production. Ensuring a comfortable, clean nesting environment encourages healthy laying habits.
Egg-Laying Tips:
- Keep nesting boxes clean and filled with soft bedding.
- Collect eggs frequently to prevent cracking or egg-eating behavior.
- Watch for broody hens and manage them accordingly.
- Provide at least one nesting box per 4-5 hens to reduce competition.
Spring is the most popular time for hatching and raising chicks. If you’re adding new birds to your flock, proper care and gradual introductions are key.
Raising Chicks Tips:
- Keep chicks in a brooder with a heat lamp at 90-95°F, reducing by 5°F each week.
- Provide chick starter feed with high protein for healthy growth.
- Ensure they have access to clean, shallow water.
- When they are fully feathered (around 6-8 weeks), introduce them slowly to the main flock.
Warmer weather also means increased risk of parasites, diseases, and respiratory issues. Keep a close eye on your flock’s health.
Health & Pest Prevention Tips:
- Inspect birds for mites and lice, treating with poultry-safe dust if needed.
- Check for signs of respiratory illness (sneezing, nasal discharge).
- Keep coops dry to prevent mold and bacteria growth.
- Use natural pest deterrents like herbs (mint, lavender) in nesting boxes.
As chickens spend more time outdoors, predators also become more active. Secure your coop and run to keep your flock safe.
Predator-Proofing Tips:
- Reinforce fencing and close any gaps where predators could enter.
- Lock up chickens at night in a secure coop.
- Use motion-activated lights or guard animals (like livestock dogs or roosters) for added protection.
- Cover open runs with netting to deter hawks and other aerial predators.
Early spring is a time of renewal, and with the right care, your chickens and poultry can thrive in the changing season. By maintaining a clean coop, providing balanced nutrition, preventing pests, and ensuring a safe outdoor environment, you’ll set your flock up for a productive and healthy year ahead.
Happy Spring Farming!