Feed restriction in broiler breeder pullets: skip-a-day versus skip-two-days

Area of Science:

• Animal Science
• Poultry Science
• Avian Physiology

Background:

• Feed restriction is a common practice in poultry production to manage growth and development.
• Understanding the impact of different feed restriction methods on pullet performance is crucial for optimizing flock management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the effects of two feed restriction methods, skip-a-day (SAD) and skip-two-days (STD), on White Rock pullet development, uniformity, and subsequent performance.
• To evaluate physiological responses, including plasma glucose and corticosterone levels, under different feed restriction regimens.

Main Methods:

• White Rock pullets were subjected to either SAD or STD feed restriction from 4 to 22 weeks of age.
• Feed intake was standardized between the two treatment groups.
• Body weight, flock uniformity, plasma glucose, and corticosterone levels were measured at various time points.
• Age at first egg, egg production rate, and egg weights were monitored up to 35 weeks of age.

Main Results:

• Pullets under the STD regimen exhibited significantly lower body weights at 22 and 35 weeks of age compared to SAD.
• Flock uniformity was significantly higher at 11 weeks of age in the STD group.
• Plasma glucose and corticosterone levels were generally not affected by the feeding regimen, except for a higher post-feeding glucose increase in the STD group and higher corticosterone in fasted birds.
• The onset of egg laying was significantly delayed in hens previously on the STD feeding program.

Conclusions:

• Skip-two-days feed restriction leads to reduced body weight and delayed sexual maturity in White Rock pullets.
• Despite reduced body weight, STD feeding enhances early flock uniformity.
• The chosen feed restriction method impacts pullet development and reproductive timing, with implications for commercial poultry management.