"Rising Temperatures, Rising Threats: The Impact of Heat Stress on Poultry Production in Bangladesh"

Abstract:

The country's economy and food security are greatly influenced by Bangladesh's chicken sector. Heat stress brought on by the climate, however, is becoming a serious risk to the productivity and well-being of chickens. The causes and effects of heat stress on poultry in Bangladesh are examined in this research, along with the socioeconomic concerns and suggested adaptation techniques for sustainable poultry production in the face of rising temperatures.

1. Introduction

The poultry sector in Bangladesh is a cornerstone of rural development, nutrition, and income generation. With millions dependent on poultry farming, both at commercial and backyard levels, any disruption in production has far-reaching effects. Recent climate trends indicate an increase in average temperature and more frequent heat waves, intensifying the risk of heat stress in poultry birds, particularly during the summer months (April–June).

2. Understanding Heat Stress in Poultry

When high ambient temperatures and humidity make it difficult for birds to effectively remove body heat, heat stress results. The lack of sweat glands and need on panting and evaporative cooling make poultry, especially broilers and layers, extremely vulnerable. Birds in Bangladesh face hazardous conditions in both commercial and residential settings due to temperatures above 35°C and high relative humidity (>70%).

3. Impacts on Poultry Health and Productivity

The physiological response to heat stress includes:

• Increased panting and respiratory rate

• Decreased feed intake and nutrient absorption

• Reduced growth rate and egg production

• Compromised immunity leading to disease susceptibility

• Elevated mortality rates in severe cases

These consequences result in large financial losses, particularly for small-scale farmers. Furthermore, as poultry meat and eggs are the population's main sources of animal protein, the stress-induced decrease in productivity puts the protein supply at risk.

4. Socio-Economic Risks

The repercussions of heat stress extend beyond poultry health:

• Livelihoods: Rural and peri-urban households, particularly women engaged in poultry rearing, face income instability.

• Food Security: A decline in poultry output leads to reduced availability and affordability of animal protein.

• Public Health: Increased disease prevalence in poultry populations may heighten the risk of zoonotic transmission and antibiotic resistance due to excessive antibiotic use.

5. Adaptation and Mitigation Strategies

To combat heat stress in poultry, multi-level interventions are essential:

Farm-Level Adaptations:

• Improve ventilation systems in poultry houses

• Provide shade and cool, clean drinking water

• Schedule feeding during cooler hours of the day

• Install low-cost cooling systems (fans, sprinklers)

Technological Innovations:

• Breed development for heat tolerance

• Solar-powered climate control systems for rural farms

Policy and Institutional Support:

• Government subsidies for climate-resilient infrastructure

• Training and extension services for heat stress management

• Research and data collection on climate-poultry interactions

6. Conclusion

For Bangladesh's chicken industry, heat stress is becoming a bigger problem since it can affect animal welfare, farm profitability, nutrition, and the country's food security. heat stress represents a significant and growing threat to the poultry industry in Bangladesh. It affects not only animal welfare and farm incomes but also public health, food security, and rural livelihoods. Addressing this issue requires a coordinated response from farmers, researchers, policymakers, and the private sector. By investing in climate adaptation strategies now, Bangladesh can protect its poultry industry from future climate shocks and ensure a stable, nutritious food supply for generations to come. It is essential that farmers, researchers, development organizations, and legislators work together to respond. Bangladesh can create a resilient poultry industry that can resist the negative effects of climate change with careful investment and education.