The recommended brooding temperatures for the two types of houses are shown in Table 2. Monitor chick comfort and regulate the temperature accordingly during the brooding period. As air flow is increased in the poultry house, a higher temperature will be necessary because of the chill-factor effect. The chicks may huddle in different locations. The ability of air to hold moisture depends upon its temperature.
Warm air can hold more moisture than can cold air.
The term relative humidity refers to the percent of water saturation of air at any given temperature. The level of humidity appears to be critical for poultry. It is recommended that a low level of relative humidity be maintained during the summer. A relative humidity level of 60 percent to 70 percent is recommended for the first three weeks and 40 percent to 60 percent for the next four weeks, or until the birds are marketed. Use evaporative cooling during the time of day when humidity is lowest.