Housing for day old chicks

Housing Chickens, being warm blooded, have the ability to maintain a rather uniform temperature of their internal organs. However, the mechanism is efficient only when the ambient temperature is within certain limits. Birds cannot adjust well to extremes; therefore, it is very important that chickens be housed, cared and provided with an environment that will enable them to maintain their thermal balance. If possible, the length of the broiler house should run from east to west. This prevents direct sunlight from penetrating the side walls of the house, which could cause heat build-up inside. Ventilation is very important. Allocate at least 1 square foot of floor space per bird. If constructing an open-sided type of housing, elevate the house about 1.5 m from the ground. This ensures proper circulation of air and easier collection of fecal matter underneath the house after each harvest. The building should be rat proof, bird proof, and cat proof. Trees may be planted on the sides of the house to provide shade during hot season. These can also serve as protection from storms or weather disturbances. The roofing should be monitor-type and high enough to provide better ak circulation inside the broiler house. In preparation for the arrival of the chicks, thoroughly clean the house with the use of a high pressure washer to remove dust, fecal matter, or any debris inside. Disinfect the house and all equipment to be used.

Rearing of the growing stock

Rearing of the Growing Stock Broilers are marketed when they reach 45-60 days of age depending on strain. Birds are given anti-stress drugs, either in the feed or in the drinking water, 2-5 days before and after they are transferred to the growing houses. Thoroughly clean and disinfect the growing houses prior to the transfer of the growing stock. Transfer birds only during good weather. During summer, birds’ appetite diminishes but this may be sufficiently restored by wet mash feeding or by taking appropriate measures like spraying, misting, or sprinkling the roofing with water to lower house temperature. Selection of Stock to Raise Stock should be purchased from a reliable hatchery or dealer where the parent stocks are well housed and well managed. Select/buy only healthy chicks (i.e. dry, fluffy feathers, bright eyes, and alert and active appearance; free from diseases, and abnormalities, chicks should have uniform size and color; and in the case of broiler chicks, it should be less than 33 grams at day-old). Choose those that have high livability and are fast growers.

Rearing of the day old chicks

Rearing of the Day-Old Chicks Provide sufficient artificial heat to keep day-old chicks warm during the day and night. Avoid abrupt changes in brooder temperature during the first two weeks of life. Provide adequate space for chicks as they grow. Overcrowding is one of the factors affecting poor growth. Good ventilation also helps avoid future respiratory diseases. Also, provide a good light source as a well-lighted brooder encourages chicks to start feeding. Provide the chicks with good quality feeds either home grown or commercially sourced. Feed the chicks intermittently rather than continuously. Research studies have shown that chicks utilize nutrients better when using intermittent feeding. Do not allow feed troughs to go empty for more than 1-2 hours. Cleanliness and dryness of the brooding quarters will prevent chicks’ contamination from parasites and diseases, which might have been carried by previously brooded chicks. Environment should be kept as uniform as possible. Sudden changes in the surroundings cause a certain degree of stress or insecurity (e.g. removal of brooder canopy; slamming doors of brooder houses; or the presence of drafts), it is advisable that a regular caretaker feed the chicks following a definite schedule during the first three weeks of the chick’s life. Make sure that feeds and fresh water are always available. Vitamins, minerals, and antibiotic supplements may be added to the drinking water during the first few days. Consult your feed dealer. Always check the chicks at night before going to sleep. All weak, deformed, and sickly chicks should be culled right away and disposed of properly. The immediate burning or burying of dead birds is an important part of a good sanitation program. Do not expose to flies or rats.