Heatwave causes three times more poultry deaths in Lower Saxony

Niedersachsen, Germany – The recent heatwave in June led to a sharp rise in poultry deaths across Lower Saxony, according to the state's Ministry of Agriculture. An inquiry by the Niedersächsische Tierseuchenkasse (animal disease fund) revealed that the number of deceased animals was roughly three times higher than on typical days.

However, the ministry noted that this inquiry was not part of a regular evaluation, and data is not consistently reported to them. For precise figures, the ministry directed inquiries to the Tierseuchenkasse itself.

Both pigs and poultry are particularly vulnerable to high temperatures because they cannot sweat. Animal welfare laws mandate that farm operators ensure sufficient water, shade, and proper ventilation to protect their animals from heat stress. Authorities can inspect conditions and issue orders if these measures are not met.