Misting Systems to Reduce Heat Stress in Broiler Chickens

Misting systems in broiler chicken houses reduce heat stress and improve animal welfare during heatwaves. High-pressure nozzles create a fine mist that cools the environment, enhancing thermal comfort for birds and workers. The practice supports consistent growth by maintaining feed intake and reduces summer mortality. While effective in indoor systems, it requires careful humidity and litter management to prevent wet litter and pad issues. Installation costs range from €7,000 to €18,000, with rapid ROI reported. Proper ventilation and nozzle maintenance are essential. Misting is less suitable for free-range systems due to outdoor placement challenges. Widely used in parts of France, it contributes to long-term sustainability and improved farm performance. BroilerNet.eu. Participating in EIP-Agri. Funded by European Commission.