Is Weather a factor??

[Brynn]

I am frustrated with the bi-polar weather! I think my goats and chickens are too. My family notices a change in the amount of production based on weather. I wonder if it is our imagination?!

The chickens produce less eggs in heavy rain
The goats produce less milk in heavy rain
First day or two of sprinkles rain or sun, chickens and goats begin to increase a little.
3-4 days of nice weather and everyone produces nicely
snow or super cold weather? Everyone is happy.

Does anyone else notice weather changes production??

 

[ragdollcatlady]

I see no one has had an answer for you.

I have found that weather affects production. Goats hate rain and will hide in their houses, wont drink much if they have to go out to the water bucket and only eat if it is brought to them or the rain stops for a few minutes. My chickens will stay out in mild rain, but may not find enough food that they usually forage for because once they are actually wet they hunker down in the garage or shelters and sleep it off. That could help explain why you also notice the difference in production. I agree that cold doesn't bother the animals as much as it bothers me!

 

[OneFineAcre]

High temps reduce milk output. Also, a does' heat cycle causes output to decrease.

 

[frustratedearthmother]

I agree....mostly. Sometimes, during rainy weather I do find more eggs. Notice that I said I "find" more eggs - not necessarily that the girls lay more eggs. That's because they stay inside and lay in the nest boxes instead of playing hide and seek out around the farm!