Meteorologists predict much of the U.S. will see a mix of extended dry or wet conditions, with little snow in sight. But don’t get too comfortable—unexpected cold snaps can still ruffle feathers for poultry producers.
Though chickens are resilient, sudden and drastic drops in temperature can reduce their metabolism and productivity. Even huddling together and fluffing their feathers for insulation can’t protect against this biting cold. Worst case scenario, cold snaps can even lead to premature death.
The good news is that poultry producers can simplify chicken winter care with Acadian Kelp™’s nutrient-rich supplements and the right nutrition to boost resilience.
Combating Chill Stress with the Right Diet
Cold weather requires animals to burn more calories to maintain their body temperatures. In fact, the University of Minnesota says that feed intake often increases by as much as 25% as poultry struggle to metabolize feed when temperatures fall below 35° F.
Consuming the right vitamins, minerals, and bioactive compounds not only keeps chickens warm but contributes to immune response, feather growth, and egg production.
What does a diet that contributes to chicken winter care look like? Here are some essential minerals and nutrients:
- Polysaccharides – Polysaccharides – Good GI health can be a blessing for cold weather resilience. When beneficial microorganisms within the GI tract receive complex sugars like polysaccharides found in Acadian Kelp™, they can boost nutrient absorption and enhance immune responses, both of which are critical to keeping chickens strong.
- Iodine – To generate energy and produce heat, chickens need a well-functioning metabolism. Ensuring they get the right amount of iodine in their diet supports healthy thyroid function, which is essential for this process.
How Seaweed Can Help with Chicken Winter Care
Where does seaweed come into play? Chicken farmers that rely on the Ascophyllum nodosum found in our Acadian Kelp™ products are able to provide their flock with precise amounts of the above nutrients and minerals without blowing their budget. For our cost-effective product, farmers can elevate the thermal regulation egg production, and resilience of their flocks.
Here’s what to know:
Seaweed Can Boost Thermal Regulation – The seaweed Ascophyllum nodosum we use in Acadian Kelp™ is rich in iodine, a mineral that helps maintain healthy thyroid function when consumed in appropriate amounts.
Seaweed Can Help Reduce Stress – Brown seaweed contains beneficial polysaccharides that may help reduce inflammation and stress levels, potentially supporting overall health and productivity.
Seaweed Can Increase Egg Quality and Yield – Supplementing laying hens’ diet with seaweed can enhance egg production and quality even during winter months, helping poultry farmers maintain consistent productivity.
Giving Chickens the Seaweed They Need
While winter chicken care requires careful planning to protect your flock from temperature drops, proper nutrition plays a vital role in keeping your birds healthy during these months. Though every flock has unique requirements based on size and circumstances, working with a veterinarian or poultry nutritionist can help you develop an appropriate winter-feeding program.
For additional guidance on winter flock management and nutrition, explore our blog for more detailed resources or contact our Acadian Kelp™ specialists for personalized recommendation.
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