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Heat stress is one of the major environmental challenges affecting broiler production in tropical and subtropical regions. During El Niño-related periods, some areas may experience prolonged high temperatures and increased climate variability, creating additional pressure on poultry house management. Effective heat stress control is essential for maintaining stable growth performance and production efficiency.
High temperatures can influence broiler feeding behavior, growth rate, and overall flock performance. When birds experience heat stress, they may reduce feed intake as a natural response to lower metabolic heat production. Reduced nutrient intake can affect weight gain and feed efficiency, while prolonged environmental stress may increase management challenges.
One important strategy is improving poultry house cooling performance. Evaporative cooling pads, ventilation fans, and optimized airflow systems can help reduce indoor temperature and improve air movement. In hot and humid environments, cooling solutions should be combined with proper ventilation management to achieve better environmental control.
Adjusting stocking density is another effective management approach. Lower stocking density during extreme heat periods can reduce total heat production inside the house and improve air circulation around birds. The suitable density level should be determined based on house design, ventilation capacity, and local climate conditions.
Feeding schedule adjustment can also support heat stress management. Providing feed during cooler periods, such as early morning or evening, may encourage feed intake and reduce the additional heat load caused by digestion during peak temperatures.
Overall, managing heat stress requires an integrated approach combining cooling equipment, ventilation systems, feeding strategies, and farm management practices. By implementing adaptive solutions based on local climate conditions, poultry producers can improve environmental stability and enhance production resilience during periods of high temperature.