Chickens lay on their side in the sun to regulate their body temperature, absorb heat, and enjoy a dust bath, which helps keep their feathers healthy.
If you’ve ever seen your chickens sprawled on their sides in the sunlight, you might have panicked—thinking they were sick or injured. But this behavior is completely normal! Chickens sunbathe to regulate their body temperature, relax, and even deter pests. Let’s explore why they do it and when you should be concerned.
Why Chickens Sunbathe on Their Sides
Chickens don’t sweat like humans. Instead, they rely on behaviors like sunbathing to stay comfortable. Here are the main reasons they lay on their sides in the sun:
1. Temperature Regulation
Chickens spread their wings and expose their bodies to the sun to warm up or cool down. On hot days, they may flatten against cooler ground surfaces to dissipate heat. In cooler weather, sunlight helps them maintain body warmth.
2. Dust Bathing
Chickens often combine sunbathing with dust bathing. They dig shallow depressions in dry soil, then roll around to coat their feathers in dirt. This natural behavior helps remove parasites like mites and lice. The sun dries the dust, making it more effective.
3. Vitamin D Absorption
Sunlight helps chickens produce vitamin D, which is essential for calcium absorption and strong eggshells. A study by the University of Georgia found that chickens with access to sunlight lay eggs with thicker shells.
4. Relaxation
Sunbathing is a sign of contentment. Chickens often doze in warm spots, sometimes with one leg tucked up. It’s their version of lounging by the pool!
When to Worry About Sunbathing Chickens
While sunbathing is normal, extreme heat can be dangerous. Watch for these signs of heat stress:
- Heavy panting with an open beak
- Wings held far away from the body
- Lethargy or refusal to move
- Pale combs and wattles
If temperatures exceed 90°F (32°C), provide shade and cool water. Learn more about how chickens keep cool in hot weather.
How to Support Your Sunbathing Chickens
1. Provide Shade Options
Chickens will move to shade when they’ve had enough sun. Offer areas with trees, tarps, or a covered run. If you’re away, read our guide on what to do with chickens when on vacation to ensure they stay comfortable.
2. Offer Dust Bathing Areas
Create designated dust bathing spots with dry soil or sand. Add wood ash or diatomaceous earth to help control parasites naturally.
3. Ensure Fresh Water
Chickens drink more when sunbathing. Provide cool, clean water in shaded areas. In winter, prevent freezing with heated waterers.
Fun Facts About Chicken Sunbathing
| Behavior | What It Means |
|---|---|
| One wing stretched out | Maximizing sun exposure on that side |
| Rolling from side to side | Even dust distribution for pest control |
| Fluffed feathers | Trapping warm air or releasing excess heat |
According to Backyard Chickens, some breeds sunbathe more than others. Mediterranean breeds like Leghorns enjoy sunbathing, while heavy breeds like Orpingtons prefer shade.
Seasonal Sunbathing Differences
Summer Sunbathing
In hot weather, chickens sunbathe early morning or late afternoon. They’ll seek shade during peak heat. Provide electrolytes in their water to prevent dehydration.
Winter Sunbathing
Chickens sunbathe more in winter to stay warm. They’ll often face their dark feathers toward the sun to absorb more heat. Ensure they have frostbite protection for combs and wattles.
Sunbathing is just one of many quirky chicken behaviors. If you’ve noticed your birds digging holes and laying in them, that’s another natural instinct worth understanding!