Development of the bones of chickens starts in
the early stage of embryo development and continues
throughout the maturity period (4). The majority of bone
development occurs in the first 12 to 14 weeks of life.
Shank and leg bone development is highly correlated with
body weight. It is thus important to ensure correct body
weight profiles in combination with good uniformity in
the rearing period, especially in the period of weeks 1 to 12
(5).