Poultry – breeding good and healthy birds requires operational excellence and attention to detail. A combination of quality nutrition, veterinary guidance, and increased consideration of barn and bird management will help ensure birds have the best possible chance to perform at their maximum potential.
The acronym “FLAWS” has commonly served as a reminder to check the feed, light, litter, air, water, biosecurity, sanitation, space, and staff. FLAWS actually serves as a detailed approach to best management practices, not only during brooding but throughout the life of the flock.
Some critical focus areas are as follows:
- Biosecurity
Well-defined biosecurity practices throughout poultry production (pre-, during, and post-placement) are crucial to successful poultry production.
Effective biosecurity can aid hygiene, vermin, and insect control on farms and help to limit disease transmission within and between barns.
- Downtime between flocks
Adequate downtime of at least 14 days with appropriate cleaning and disinfection measures between lock placement helps to reduce transmissions of disease and allows time to prepare for the next batch.
- Pre-placement preparation
Pre-placement preparation is needed before the new flock arrives to help prevent losses during brooding and the rest of the grow-out.
Checkpoints to keep in mind: heaters, floor temperature, temperature and relative humidity, ventilation, drinkers, feeders, etc.
- Coccidiosis Prevention
Coccidiosis is a disease caused by a microscopic intestinal parasite. The parasite can have an impact on intestinal integrity and may predispose birds to other intestinal problems. In addition, maintaining intestinal integrity during this time through innovative technologies provided in the Animal Health Management Program is critical. Furthermore, it allows birds to perform to their maximum levels despite gut health challenges.
- Brooding Management
With today’s improved genetic capabilities and the fast growth of birds, more time i spent during the critical brooding phase. In addition, ensuring a good start in poultry can have a significant impact on the future health and performance of the birds.
The brooding period is an important time for intestinal growth and the development of a balanced microflora.
