Hatching system and time effects on broiler physiology and posthatch growth.

Area of Science:

• Animal Science
• Poultry Science
• Avian Physiology

Background:

• A novel multilevel housing system, the Patio, combines hatching and brooding for broilers.
• The Patio system offers different climate conditions compared to traditional hatchers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the physiology of broilers hatched in a traditional hatcher versus the Patio system.
• To investigate the effects of hatching time on broiler physiology and growth.

Main Methods:

• Broiler eggs were incubated and hatched in either a hatcher or the Patio system.
• Chicks were sampled at different hatching times (early, midterm, late) for physiological analysis.
• Broiler growth and organ weights were monitored up to 45 days post-hatch.

Main Results:

• Hatcher chicks had slightly higher glucose and corticosterone levels, but organ weights were unaffected by the hatching system.
• Post-hatch growth (0-45 days) was not significantly different between hatching systems.
• Broiler physiology, including glucose, lactate, and triiodothyronine levels, was influenced by hatching time, indicating advanced organ maturation.

Conclusions:

• The hatching system had minor effects on hatchling physiology, with no impact on post-hatch growth or livability.
• Hatching time is a critical factor affecting broiler physiology and should be considered in future research.