Water balance of colostomised and non-colostomised hens at different ambient temperatures

1. The quantities of water gained and lost, and hence the total water balance, were determined in normal and colostomised White Leghorn laying hens at ambient temperatures of 5, 20 and 35 degrees C. 2. In both groups the water intake and water loss at all temperatures were well balanced. 3. Water to food ratios and water content of excreta of normal hens increased with increasing temperature. 4. The water excreta at 35 degrees C are caused by an increasing urine production and not by an increased water passage through the alimentary tract.