Introduction- Raising chicks in a poultry house requires careful planning and preparation to ensure their health, well-being, and optimal growth. Before the arrival of chicks, poultry farmers must take several essential steps to create a suitable environment that promotes their growth and minimizes potential risks. This topic will outline the necessary measures to be taken before the arrival of chicks in the poultry house.
1. Cleaning and Disinfection- Before the arrival of chicks, it is crucial to thoroughly clean and disinfect the poultry house. This process helps eliminate any potential disease-causing pathogens, germs, bacterias that may have been present from previous flocks. Cleaning should involve removing all litter, debris, and dust from the house, followed by disinfection using appropriate disinfectants like viral kill germ guards etc. This step ensures a clean and hygienic environment for the chicks, reducing the risk of disease transmission.
2. Temperature and Ventilation- Maintaining the appropriate temperature and ventilation in the poultry house is vital for the chicks’ well-being. Before their arrival, farmers should ensure that the brooder temperature is set correctly, typically around 95°F (32-35°C). Adequate ventilation is also crucial to prevent the buildup of harmful gases like ammonia, carbon monoxide and maintain fresh air circulation. Proper ventilation helps control humidity levels, preventing respiratory issues and promoting healthy growth.
3. Providing suitable bedding material is essential for the chicks’ comfort and hygiene. Before their arrival, farmers should spread clean, disinfected and dry bedding material, such as wood shavings or rice husks on the floor of the poultry house. This bedding material helps absorb moisture, provides insulation, and prevents the chicks from direct contact with the floor, reducing the risk of diseases and injuries.
4. Feed and Water- Ensuring a constant supply of clean and fresh SUPRA feed and water is crucial for the chicks’ growth and development. Before their arrival, farmers should ensure that feeders and drinkers are clean, functional, and easily accessible to the chicks. The feed provided should be nutritionally balanced and appropriate for the chicks’ age and breed (e.g SUPRA feed). Additionally, drinkers should be filled with clean, fresh water to keep the chicks hydrated and prevent dehydration.
5. Biosecurity Measures.- Implementing strict biosecurity measures is essential to prevent the introduction and spread of diseases in the poultry house. Before the arrival of chicks, farmers should establish a biosecurity plan that includes measures such as limiting access to the poultry house, providing footbaths, and using disinfectant sprays for visitors. Additionally, farmers should ensure that all equipment, including feeders, drinkers, and brooders, are thoroughly cleaned and disinfected to prevent disease transmission.
Conclusion- Preparing for the arrival of chicks in the poultry house requires careful planning and attention, By following the necessary steps outlined here, poultry farmers can create a clean, comfortable, and disease-free environment for the chicks. Proper cleaning and disinfection, maintaining appropriate temperature and ventilation, providing suitable bedding and ensuring a constant supply of clean feed and water, and implementing biosecurity measures are all crucial aspects of preparing for the arrival of chicks. By taking these measures, farmers can set the stage for healthy growth and successful poultry farming operations. SOURCE: SUPRA SALES & TECHNICAL ADVISOR, Malanda chiunge. Malanda.chiunge@vamara .com 0973309770 or 0962181165.