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Effect of intermittent activity on broiler production parameters
J M Balog1, G R Bayyari, N C Rath
1USDA, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville 72701, USA.
Poultry Science
|January 1, 1997
Summary
Simple equipment like ramps and toys can improve broiler production. Ramps enhanced weight gain and feed efficiency, while toys reduced leg problems, benefiting overall flock health and performance.
Area of Science:
- Animal Science
- Poultry Science
- Agricultural Engineering
Background:
- Intermittent lighting in broiler production encourages activity, potentially reducing lameness.
- Implementing intermittent lighting is challenging in traditional curtain-sided housing systems.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate if simple equipment, specifically ramps and toys, can enhance broiler production variables.
- To assess the impact of increased activity induced by equipment on broiler health and performance.
Main Methods:
- 840 male broiler chicks were divided into 24 pens with four treatments: control, ramps and toys, ramps only, and toys only.
- Production variables including weight, feed consumption, mortality, ascites, and tibial dyschondroplasia (TD) were monitored over six weeks.
- Physiological parameters such as organ weights and blood analyses were conducted at the study's conclusion.
Main Results:
- Ramp treatments led to heavier average bird weights and improved feed:gain ratios in Trial 1.
- In Trial 2, ramp treatments reduced feed consumption and improved feed:gain ratios, with decreased cumulative mortality.
- Toy treatments significantly decreased the incidence and severity of tibial dyschondroplasia (TD) in Trial 2.
Conclusions:
- Ramp usage in broiler production can improve feed efficiency and reduce mortality.
- Incorporating toys into broiler housing can mitigate leg abnormalities like tibial dyschondroplasia (TD).
- Simple equipment modifications offer a practical alternative to intermittent lighting for enhancing broiler performance and welfare.