Some hatchery factors involved in early chick mortality

Area of Science:

• Animal Science
• Poultry Science
• Hatchery Management

Background:

• Chick hatching occurs over extended periods, impacting early-life chick health and survival.
• Broiler chick mortality and health issues are linked to hatching time and post-hatch handling.
• Understanding the effects of hatching duration is vital for commercial hatchery operations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the impact of hatching time on broiler chick mortality and health.
• To evaluate the physiological effects of prolonged holding in hatcher machines.
• To assess the efficacy of staggered setting times in reducing chick mortality.

Main Methods:

• Observational study in a commercial broiler hatchery over a 48-hour hatching period.
• Monitoring chick mortality to 10 days of age based on hatching time.
• Assessing chick health for dehydration and leg weakness.
• Measuring weight loss and yolk sac utilization in chicks held post-hatch.

Main Results:

• Mortality rates varied significantly: 3.2% (early), 1.2% (peak), and 52.9% (late hatch).
• Early hatched chicks showed increased dehydration; late hatched chicks exhibited leg weakness.
• Chicks held for 48 hours lost 12.5-21.7% of body weight and 79.4% of yolk sac weight.
• Staggered setting reduced mortality to 1.2%, while 24-hour holding in boxes at 70°C increased it to 5.6%.

Conclusions:

• Hatching time is a critical factor influencing broiler chick viability and health outcomes.
• Extended holding periods post-hatch negatively affect chick physiological status and survival rates.
• Implementing staggered setting times and prompt chick removal can significantly improve broiler chick survival in commercial hatcheries.