Poultry farming is one of the most widely practiced types of farming in the country. This is because there is a high demand for eggs and chicken meat products, both of which have a ready market.
Poultry farm waste is also used and sold as farm manure or sieved to make animal feed.
As a result, farmers must be well-informed about the best ways to rear chickens and maximize their profits.
To be successful in poultry farming, particularly in layer farming, a farmer must understand a flock's production capabilities, how to budget and plan for feeds, when to expect the first eggs, factors that may influence the onset of laying eggs, and when to expect large production.
Feeding
Layers should be fed layers' mash, and broilers should be fed growers' mash.
For optimum production, the birds require a balanced diet that includes all of the nutrients required for healthy body growth.
Protein and calcium are included for layers to ensure maximum egg production.
The birds should also be given plenty of clean drinking water to aid digestion, egg production, and proper growth.
Lighting
The duration of light exposure should also be limited.
Egg production decreases when exposed to light for less than the minimum time, ideally 14 hours of daylight.
When the lights are turned off, the poultry birds do not feed, resulting in low egg production.
Housing
The house should be well secured to keep predators out, spacious enough for the birds to move around freely, and have adequate ventilation to provide fresh air.
The housing structure should protect the birds from extreme temperatures like cold or heat.
Extreme heat or cold reduces output and may result in death. africanfarming.com highlights
To keep disease-causing organisms at bay, the coop and brooder should be kept clean, dry, and sanitized.
Timely vaccination
This is crucial for maintaining the health of birds on a farm. Farmers should ensure that the birds are vaccinated on schedule to protect them from pests and diseases. Additionally, providing them with necessary vitamins and debeaking them are essential measures to promote their overall well-being.
Breeding
It plays a significant role in maximizing productivity, especially for egg-laying breeds with large flocks. This involves identifying the most productive females and their male offspring and using them to create a lineage that exhibits outstanding performance on the farm.
Record keeping
Keeping records is an important practice for poultry farmers. It involves maintaining detailed records of vaccination dates and production rates, particularly for egg-laying birds. This facilitates easy tracking and assessment of performance, enabling farmers to identify areas for improvement and enhance efficiency.
Proper handling of birds
Proper handling of birds is vital to minimize stress and optimize production. Birds should be protected from sudden changes, disturbances, rough handling, and interference from unfamiliar visitors. When handling the birds, it is important to hold them gently with the hand beneath the breast and avoid gripping them by the feet.
Final thoughts
Increasing poultry production is a vital goal for the agricultural industry. With a growing global population and the increasing demand for protein-rich diets, the poultry sector plays a crucial role in meeting these needs.
By implementing the following strategies, farmers and producers can effectively boost poultry production and contribute to the sustainable growth of the industry.
Firstly, optimizing management practices is essential. Farmers should focus on providing a comfortable and hygienic environment for the birds. Proper housing with adequate ventilation, lighting, and temperature control is crucial for their well-being and productivity.
Regular cleaning and disinfection of the facilities help prevent the spread of diseases and maintain a healthy flock.
Secondly, nutrition plays a pivotal role in maximizing poultry production. Formulating balanced and nutritious diets that meet the specific requirements of different bird species and production stages is vital.
Utilizing high-quality feed ingredients, such as grains, protein sources, vitamins, and minerals, ensures optimal growth and performance.
Regularly monitoring and adjusting the feed formulation based on the nutritional needs of the birds can further enhance productivity.
Thirdly, disease prevention and biosecurity measures are paramount. Implementing strict biosecurity protocols helps minimize the risk of disease outbreaks and ensures the overall health of the flock.
Vaccinations, regular health checks, and effective disease management practices should be employed to reduce the incidence of infectious diseases.
Isolating new birds, controlling visitor access, and practicing proper waste management are essential biosecurity measures that prevent the introduction and spread of pathogens.
Fourthly, adopting modern technology and automation can significantly enhance poultry production. Automated feeding and watering systems, climate control systems, and advanced monitoring tools enable precise management and optimization of production parameters.
Utilizing data-driven decision-making processes, such as precision farming and predictive analytics, allows farmers to identify and address potential issues promptly, leading to improved efficiency and productivity.
Furthermore, investing in research and development is crucial for the continuous improvement of poultry production. Staying updated with the latest advancements in genetics, breeding techniques, and production systems enables farmers to select superior bird strains and implement innovative practices.
Collaborating with industry experts, universities, and research institutions fosters knowledge exchange and promotes the adoption of best practices.
Lastly, promoting sustainability and animal welfare is essential for the long-term success of poultry production. Implementing environmentally friendly practices, such as efficient waste management and renewable energy utilization, reduces the industry's ecological footprint.
Furthermore, providing the birds with proper living conditions, including sufficient space, natural light, and enrichments, improves their welfare, which positively influences their productivity.
In conclusion, increasing poultry production requires a multifaceted approach that encompasses proper management practices, optimal nutrition, disease prevention, technological advancements, research and development, and sustainability initiatives.
By adopting these strategies, farmers and producers can meet the growing demand for poultry products while ensuring the well-being of the birds and the long-term viability of the industry. With dedication, innovation, and a focus on continuous improvement, the poultry sector can contribute significantly to global food security and economic growth.
