Poultry 101 Tips to Avoid Frosbite or adjustable gable vents work well. The rule of thumb: if you can smell ammonia, ventilation is inadequate.
Manage Moisture
• Replace damp bedding frequently.
• Keep waterers elevated and outside of the main roosting area when possible.
• Use nipple waterers or spill-proof systems to reduce splashing.
• Implement deep-litter systems carefully to allow microbial heat to develop while keeping the top layer dry.
If you notice discoloration, swelling or darkened comb tips, act fast— early care makes all the difference. When in doubt, consult an avian vet or contact your local cooperative extension for guidance.
Provide Proper Roosting Design
Roosts should be flat and wide enough( about two to four inches) so birds can cover their toes with feathers while sleeping. Round perches expose toes to air on all sides, increasing frostbite risk. Wood retains heat better than metal.
Monitor Temperature Extremes
When nighttime temperatures dip below 20 degrees Fahrenheit( minus six degrees Celsius), pay special attention to flock behavior. Birds huddling tightly or refusing to roost may indicate cold stress.
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In extreme conditions, temporary heat sources— such as radiant heaters or well-shielded brooder plates— can be used, but open heat lamps are discouraged due to fire hazards.
Protect the Comb and Wattles Applying a thin coat of petroleum jelly or lanolin can provide a moisture barrier and reduce evaporative heat loss. While not a cure-all, it’ s a simple protective measure before cold snaps.
For show birds or valuable breeders, some keepers use wattle guards or custom foam insulation to reduce exposure.
Nutrition for Tissue Resilience
Feed a balanced winter ration high in energy( fat) and ensure access to fresh, unfrozen water. Supplements such as vitamin E, A, D3 and selenium support tissue integrity and immune response, improving recovery from cold stress.
Recognizing Frostbite: Signs and Stages
Early signs include:
• Pale or whitish discoloration on comb tips, wattles or toes
• Slight swelling
• Bird pulling feet up frequently or shaking head
As frostbite progresses:
• Affected tissue turns dark red, gray or black
• Skin may feel hard or leathery
• Blistering or peeling can occur in severe cases Advanced frostbite may lead to necrosis and sloughing of tissue. In extreme cases, toes, comb tips or wattles
December 2025 AcreageLife 9