Adequate ventilation Proper ventilation isn’t just about keeping your hens comfortable. Accumulated moisture can lead to respiratory illness, and ammonia fumes created by decomposing manure can cause eye irritation. Protection from the elements Your hen house should insulate the hens against extremes in temperature, especially radiant heat, which will easily put them under stress. The best options will offer shade from direct sunlight as well as waterproofing from the rain. Security from predators Chickens are unfortunately a firm favourite in the diets of foxes, ferrets and feral cats. If you love your hens, it‘s essential that the hen house is constructed to keep them safe from these predators. • Use strong, galvanised wire of a small mesh size on all facings, including the top and floor so predators can’t dig their way into the hen house. • Make sure that there are no gaps between the doors or windows of the hen house. Chickens lack sweat glands! To keep cool they instead use their plumage to move air across their bodies, and their comb and wattles to release excess heat. DID YOU KNOW? • Ensure that the doors and windows are properly secured with catches and locks. • Motion activated lighting can also scare away an inquisitive visitor. Most importantly, make sure all your chooks are secured in the hen house before the end of the day! Predators are most active at night, and a loose chicken is an easy target. THE CHOOK BOOK | 25