Managing Poultry Health Risks During Cold Winter Months

Monday, March 30, 2026

Respiratory illnesses tend to rise in poultry flocks during colder months, creating added challenges for producers.

According to Penn State Extension poultry specialist Torey Fischer, winter conditions can make disease control more difficult due to fluctuating temperatures and ventilation issues.

Poor airflow, combined with cold and damp environments, increases stress on birds and weakens their immune systems.

Moisture and humidity play a major role in disease spread. Wet litter and elevated ammonia levels create ideal conditions for pathogens to survive longer, increasing the risk of infections and secondary bacterial complications. These factors make proper flock and environmental management essential during winter.

After a disease outbreak, careful handling of manure and litter becomes critical, especially in areas with dense poultry populations. Improper disposal, such as spreading untreated manure on nearby fields, may contribute to disease transmission.

Composting is widely recommended as an effective way to reduce this risk. When done correctly, composting generates heat that helps destroy harmful pathogens before the material is reused or spread.

Successful composting depends on balancing key elements: carbon sources like wood shavings, nitrogen from manure, adequate moisture, and sufficient oxygen.

The material should be mixed thoroughly to support microbial activity, with moisture levels typically maintained between 40% and 60%. Coarser materials are useful for improving airflow and preventing compaction.

Pile structure is also important. Long, narrow windrows with a broad base allow better air circulation compared to large, compact piles.

Monitoring internal temperatures helps ensure effectiveness, with a common target of at least 131°F sustained for several days to reduce pathogens. Turning the pile periodically introduces oxygen and maintains microbial activity.

In addition to composting, allowing sufficient downtime between flocks helps prevent reinfection. Where downtime is limited, heating poultry houses and partially composting litter inside can offer an alternative method to reduce disease risks.

Best Recommended Practices for Poultry Farms:

Maintain proper ventilation even during cold weather to reduce moisture buildup.
Regularly monitor litter quality to prevent excessive dampness.
Use high-quality carbon materials to improve compost efficiency.
Frequently check compost temperatures to ensure effective pathogen control.
Limit farm traffic and strengthen biosecurity measures after outbreaks.