protection from the weather. Many birds live their lives in temperature-controlled barns unconditioned
to weather extremes or inclement weather. The day they are transported will be their first exposure to
natural climate.
combs and wattles of poultry are susceptible to freezing and frostbite causing painful tissue damage
(Wilson, 1974, pp. 222). Further, excessive cold suppresses the birds' immune systems (specifically
the thymus and bursal systems) (North and Bell, p. 755).
On January 15, 2009, with a severe weather bulletin issued and a temperature of 50°C (-58°F), birds
were seen at Granny's Poultry in Blumenort, Manitoba, left on trailers fully exposed to the elements.
The birds on one trailer were exposed to the biting cold and high winds for 17 minutes (left in the
holding area at 11:51 am and finally moved into the live-hanging building at 12:08 pm).
Exposed to 50°C temperatures for 17 minutes
Granny's Poultry (same location as above) completely exposed to the elements for an average period
of between three to ten minutes.