Management
Brooding period general management
The rearing period is of major importance for the life of the breeders: the productivity of a flock
depends to a large extent on the successful attainment of bodyweight targets since early age.
The objectives during brooding period are:
- rapid growth to reach body weight target at 5 weeks of age
- good uniformity from the beginning
- excellent live ability
From day old to 5 weeks of age it is a key period: body frame is built, vital organs develop as well
as the immune system. Any delay in growth will be reflected in a reduction in bodyweight at 16
weeks and then in later performance. Also breeder chick’s ability to resist disease and respond to
vaccines may be affected.