Chicken Talk: When Hens Sense Dampness…
They are absolutely not happy. Chickens and moisture are a bad combination. When it rains, they quickly seek shelter; high humidity in the coop causes breathing problems (and damages the housing), damp litter becomes a breeding ground for germs, and mud or snow can lead to foot injuries, and so on. Wet feathers lose their insulating power, the hen cools down rapidly and can even suffer from hypothermia.
Health
Housing
11 November '25 • 2 min reading time
In short, moisture should be avoided in the environment of our poultry.
It’s autumn and winter is on its way. The hens have just finished moulting – a period that demands extra energy and protein and takes a toll on their resistance. That’s why it’s especially important now to prevent or address any moisture issues.
Check the ventilation in the night coop. Make sure both the air inlet (usually the access door) and the outlet (usually an opening high in the coop) are open – without causing draughts. Use your senses: what do you see, smell, and feel? Strong manure odours, condensation, or mould on the walls, as well as wheezing or laboured breathing, are all signs of poor ventilation.
Provide a bedding material that absorbs moisture, such as flax, hemp, or wood shavings, and regularly remove droppings from under the perches. Although (wheat) straw is still traditionally used, it’s best avoided – the hollow stems of straw and hay are perfect hiding places for red mites. In summer, sand (such as builders’ sand) can work well as bedding, but in winter it’s not recommended since it doesn’t absorb moisture and stays wet for a long time. Wet litter is an ideal breeding ground for germs, so remove damp spots regularly.
The outdoor run is, of course, exposed to the weather and can easily turn into a muddy pool. Some chickens might prefer to stay inside, scratching less and quickly getting bored. Good drainage in the run is therefore important. On most soil types, rainwater will drain naturally, but if the ground has been compacted by the chickens, water permeability will be poor. Digging over the soil can work wonders – and the hens will love it because it brings worms, seeds, and sprouts to the surface.
Always make sure there’s at least one dry area (for example under a small roof) where the chickens can take their essential dust bath. Also, a dry entrance to the coop (such as a covered porch or a grate in front of the door) prevents the hens from bringing in moisture, snow, or ice on their feet and feathers.
Chickens can handle cold quite well, but not moisture. With a well-ventilated coop, regular removal of damp spots, and a partly dry outdoor run, your hens will stay healthy throughout the winter.
Hans Krudde