© Sam obare 1

1. LIVESTOCK PRODUCTION 5
(POULTRY PDODUCTION)
12-May-21
 Parts of an egg
2

© Sam obare 12-May-21

3

1. Shell- It is the outer covering 2. Shell membrane- It forms the

of the egg consisting of calcium inner lining of the shell.
and phosphorus compounds  It is made up of two membranes
which make it hard. (inner and outer) whose contact is
Functions. not easy to identify.
 They separate at the broad end to
i. It gives the egg its shape. form air space/air sac/air cell.
ii. Protects the inner parts of the Functions.
egg.
i. Outer and inner membranes
iii. It allows gaseous exchange separate to form air space. The air
because it is porous. trapped is used by the developing
iv. Prevents entry of micro- embryo during incubation.
organisms. ii. Determine the egg shape.
iii. Protect inner parts of the egg.

© Sam obare 12-May-21

4

3. Air space/air sac/air cell- It 4. The yolk- It is yellow in

is formed at the broad end of the
egg enclosed by two membranes. colour and spherical.
 It is used for gaseous exchange.  It contains nutrients (i.e.
Formation. vitamins, fats, minerals and
 It is formed immediately the egg is proteins.
laid.
 The body temperature in a hen is
Functions.
higher than outside. i. Stores nutrients for the
 Once the egg is laid the lower embryo.
temperature on the outside causes
the contraction of the egg contents ii. Carries the germinal disc
creating the space which fills with which develops into the
air.
embryo.

12-May-21 © Sam obare

5

5. Albumen/Egg white.- it 6. The chalaza- It is a white dense

is jelly-like colourless fluid mass of fluid.
when fresh and turns white  It consists of two twisted cords.
when cooked. Functions.
Functions i. Hold the yolk in central position
a) Surrounds the yolk of the egg
b) Stores food for developing ii. The two chalazae hold the yolk
from both ends of the egg
embryo/ chick. ensuring the egg yolk/ germinal
c) Acts as a shock absorber. disc always move to the top
position.
 This is important during incubation
for the purpose of heat transfer to
the developing embryo.

© Sam obare 12-May-21

 Incubation of eggs
6

 Egg incubation is the 3. They should have smooth

embryonic development of a shells.
fertilized egg into a chick under 4. The should be oval in shape.
correct conditions which will
ensure that a chick is finally 5. They should be free from any
hatched. cracks in the shells.
Selection of eggs for 6. They should be clean to ensure
incubation. that the pores are open.
 Eggs selected for incubation
7. They should not have any
should have the following abnormalities e.g. blood spots,
characteristics: meat spots, or double yolk.
1. They should be fertile. 8. They should be fresh i.e.
collected within one week.
2. They should be of medium size
(55-60 grams).

© Sam obare 12-May-21

7

Study question. Egg abnormalities

List the qualities of shell A. Internal abnormalities.
considered when 1. Blood/meat spots within the yolk.
selecting eggs for 2. Double yolks- two yolks
incubation. surrounded by one membrane.
1. Texture/smoothness. 3. Egg within egg- two complete
yolks each with its own
2. Absence of cracks. membrane seen in one egg.
3. Cleanliness. 4. Yolkless eggs
4. Oval in shape. External abnormalities.
i. Thin shelled eggs.
ii. Thin cracks on the shell.
iii. Very porous shells.

© Sam obare 12-May-21

8

EGG CANDLING.
 This is a method of

examining the internal

conditions of an egg for
abnormalities by looking
at it against strong light in
a dark room.

© Sam obare 12-May-21

9

Procedure of egg candling.  It is done at least twice during

 The egg is placed over a hole
incubation i.e. after 5-7 days/1
made on a cardboard box. week to check for fertility (if
fertile, blood veins will be seen),
 A light under the box is then put
and on 18th day to confirm the
on. presence of a chick.
 The observer then looks at the
 On 18th day the following are
egg against the light below observed:
Reasons for candling. i. A large dark section of
i. To check egg abnormalities. developing chick.
ii. To monitor chick development ii. A small clear section of air
during incubation. space.
iii. To check whether the egg is
fertile.

© Sam obare 12-May-21

10

What is observed through Conditions that reduce

candling. hatchability.
1. The size of air space/ cell. 1. Presence of cracks.
2. Whether the egg is fertile or not. 2. Double yolks.
If it is fertile, the germinal disc
will be seen as a black spot. 3. Having no yolk.
3. Whether the yolk has blood spots. 4. Meat/Blood spots.
4. Whether the shell has hair cracks. 5. Rough shell.
5. Whether the egg shell is broken. 6. Unfertilized egg.
6. Whether the shell is very porous 7. Very small/tiny eggs.
8. Eggs older than one week.
Causes of soft shelled eggs.
1. Lack of calcium in the feed.
2. Diseases e.g. Newcastle.

© Sam obare 12-May-21

 Methods of incubation.
11

A. NATURAL Signs of broodiness in hen/

INCUBATION. poultry.
 This is where a hen is 1. The hen stops laying eggs.
allowed to sit on eggs to 2. The hen continues to stay
provide optimum conditions in the laying nest after
for embryonic laying
development/hatching.
3. The hen plucks off her
 It is done through a broody feathers which she uses in
hen. the incubation nest.
4. The hen becomes
aggressive and produces a
characteristic sound when
approached in the nest.
© Sam obare 12-May-21
 © Sam obare 12-May-21

12

Preparation and management  The hen is given an adequate

of natural incubation. number of eggs (about 10-15)
 A nesting box (made from half
to sin on.
debe, carton box, karai or
wooden box) should be provided  The broody hen should be
to a broody hen. provided with balanced feed
 The nesting box should be dry, and water.
spacious to allow movement of
the hen and placed in the well  The broody hen should be
ventilated place. dusted with appropriate
 The nesting materials e.g. dry insecticides to control parasites
grass, sawdust and wood shavings (e.g. louse or stick fast flea).
should be placed in the nest. This
helps to maintain warmth in the  The broody hen should be
nest. allowed to go out at least once
a day for exercise and feeding.
13

Qualities of a good
laying/ nesting box.
i. Should be dimly
lit/dark.
ii. It should be spacious.
iii. Should have dry
beddings to keep it
warm.
iv. Kept in secluded parts
of the house.
© Sam obare 12-May-21
14

Advantages of natural Disadvantages of natural

incubation. incubation.
1. A small-scale farmer who 1. Only few chicks can be
cannot afford the incubator hatched at a time by one
can multiply the flocks hen.
using this method. 2. The farmer cannot plan
2. It is less laborious and there when to incubate.
is no need of turning the 3. Diseases can easily be
eggs and checking the transmitted from infected
temperatures. hen to chicks after
3. Little skill is required. hatching.
4. The margin of risk is 4. Hens can only be used
reduced. when broody.
© Sam obare 12-May-21
15

B. ARTIFICIAL INCUBATION 2. Fresh air/ ventilation- there

 In this method, all the conditions should be enough fresh air circulation
necessary for hatching are provided because oxygen is necessary for
artificially in a device called incubator. embryonic development.
Conditions necessary for artificial  Ventilation facilitates gaseous exchange
incubation. and helps to control humidity.
1. Temperature- it is necessary for 3. Relative humidity- it should be
embryonic development. maintained at 60%.
 It should be maintained at 37.5-39.4  Low humidity causes the embryo to lose
degrees celcius. moisture and die.
 Lower or higher temperatures would kill
 High humidity lowers hatchability and
the developing embryo. leads to production of bigger chicks
which look marshy.
 It is maintained by placing a damp cloth
or water in a tray within an incubator.

© Sam obare 12-May-21

16

Incubator Incubator

© Sam obare 12-May-21

17

4. Egg turning- this is done along  Turn the eggs after every 6-8
the axis of the egg at 45 degrees daily but in the first 24 hours and
from vertical and each time in the last 3 days the eggs should
different directions. not be turned.
 This is to avoid the germinal disc  Remove any infertile egg on the
sticking onto the egg shell leading to 5th day and any broken egg.
lack of hatchability.  Add water/place a damp cloth to
 Wrong turning of the egg may maintain humidity.
result in breakage of blood vessels.  Maintain the temperature at the
Preparation and management of appropriate range.
artificial incubation/ incubator.  Ensure that there is proper
 Clean and fumigate/ disinfect the ventilation.
incubator before putting the eggs  Transfer the eggs into the
and put it in a clean room. hatching compartment after 19th
 Set well selected eggs. day.
© Sam obare 12-May-21
18

Advantages of artificial Disadvantages of artificial

incubation. incubation.
1. Many chicks can be hatched i. The incubator is expensive
at a time. to buy hence capital
2. It is possible to plan when investment is high.
to hatch. ii. It requires more labour
3. It is easier to control iii. It requires more skill than
diseases and parasites. natural method.
4. The incubator is usually iv. It involves high risks of
ready when required. damaging all the eggs or
embryos if management is
poor.
© Sam obare 12-May-21
19

Sources of chicks Examples of reputable

 When sourcing fro day-old hatchery.
chicks the following 1. Muguku poultry farm,
factors are considered: kikuyu.
1. The reputation of the 2. Lake chicks hatchery,
supplier. Kisumu.
2. Time taken from the 3. Kenchick poultry
hatchery and the farm. hatcheries, Athi River.
3. Type of chicks available. 4. Stockplan hatccheries,
Mombasa.
5. Stigma suppliers,
Nairobi.
© Sam obare 12-May-21
 BROODING
20

 Brooding refers to rearing of Advantages of natural

chicks. brooding.
Methods of brooding i. It is cheap.
A. NATURAL BROODING. ii. It requires less labour.
 The hen is allowed to take care of Disadvantages of natural
the chicks. brooding.
 The hen provides warmth and i. It is only possible when hens
protection to the chicks. go broody.
 Feeds and water are provided to ii. It lowers egg production
the hen and chicks. during brooding.
 The hen stays with the chicks
until they are ready to take care
of themselves.

© Sam obare 12-May-21

21

B. ARTIFICIAL BROODING.  Some feeds should be spread on the

 In this method, chicks are kept in a
newspapers and some placed in the
structure called artificial brooder feeders. This helps the chicks to
for 6-8 weeks after hatching. know where the feeder is after they
eat up all the feeds on the
Preparation of the brooder before newspapers.
arrival of the chicks.
 After the chicks have learnt where
 The brooder should be made ready to eat from the newspapers are
2-3 days before the arrival of chicks. removed.
 All equipment should be  The brooder and the equipment
functioning. should be thoroughly cleaned and
 Newspapers should be spread on the disinfected before the arrival of
floor of the brooder. This prevents chicks.
the chicks from eating the litter.

© Sam obare 12-May-21

22

 When the chicks arrive and seem  Should be provided with plenty
to be weak or suffering from of clean water.
stress, they should be persuaded  Chicks should be vaccinated
to start drinking and glucose against gumboro disease after 2
should be put in water. weeks, newcastle at 3-4 weeks of
Management after arrival of age and fowl typhoid at 7 weeks
chicks. of age.
 When the chicks arrive they  Coccidiosis disease controlled by
should be fed on chick mash for giving coccidiostats to chicks
8 weeks. through water or feed.
 The feed must be kept as clean as  The chicks should be dusted with
possible. appropriate chemicals to control
 The feeders should be kept clean
external parasites.
everyday.

© Sam obare 12-May-21

23

 Roosts for the chicks to  When the chicks are 8

perch on are introduced in weeks old they are removed
the 6th week. from the brooder.
 Grit/ sand is also given to  In the 9th week chicks are
help in digestion of the feed. feed on growers mash only.
 In the 7th week growers
marsh is introduced
gradually which is mixed
with a ration of chick mash.
 The amount of chick mash is
reduced gradually while
increasing the amount of
growers mash.

© Sam obare 12-May-21

24

Brooder Brooder

© Sam obare 12-May-21

25

Requirements/ qualities of 3. Equipment- they include:

artificial brooder. a) Feeders- should have
1. Litter – it is made from wood adequate feeders to allow for
shavings/saw dust to maintain proper feeding without
warmth, absorbs moisture and overcrowding.
keep the chicks busy  They should be made in a such a
preventing cannibalism. way that the chicks do not step
2. Proper ventilation/ fresh or defecate on the feeds.
air.- should have holes on the  To check whether the feeder are
walls for ventilation to allow enough the farmer observes
proper gaseous exchange. whether the chicks are feeding
without overcrowding.

© Sam obare 12-May-21

26

b) Waterers- should have adequate 7. Heat source- heat sources e.g.

waterers to allow for proper electric bulbs, lantern, kerosine and
watering of chicks without gas burners should be provided and
overcrowding. controlled to maintain correct
 They should be kept clean and made temperatures within the brooder.
in a such a way that the chicks do  There should be a wire guard round the
not step or defecate on them. heat source to prevent the chicks from
 They should have the pointed top on being burnt when they crowd around
which the chicks cannot perch. it.
5. Well lit- to allow chicks to see  The temperature should be maintained
feeds and water. at the optimum range.
6. Shape of the brooder- It 8. Dim light-Dim or dull lights are
should be round to avoid recommended because too blight
overcrowding at the corners light has blinding effects on chicks
which may cause suffocation. and influence toe pecking.

© Sam obare 12-May-21

27

© Sam obare 12-May-21

28

Methods of checking temperature in Behavior of chicks under heat stress.

the brooder i. They move away from the heat
1. Use of a thermometer. source.
2. Checking the behavior of chicks. ii. Opening/ spreading of wings.
 When the chicks move away from the iii. They lie flat on their bellies.
heat source then the temperature is iv. Drinking a lot of water.
high.
v. Opening of beaks.
 If they overcrowd around the heat
source then the temperature is low. Causes of high mortality of one day
old chicks.
 If they overcrowd at one side then
there is draught from the opposite i. Coldness/chillness.
side. ii. Too much heat.
 When temperature is optimum then iii. Lack of feeds and water.
the chicks are evenly spread all over
the brooder floor. iv. Parasites and diseases.

© Sam obare 12-May-21

29 © Sam obare 12-May-21
 Study question
30

1. Describe preparation of a  Spread litter on the floor.

brooder before the arrival of  Spread newspapers on the
chicks. litter.
 Prepare a brooder 2-3 days
 Provide enough clean feeders
before the arrival of chicks. and waterers.
 Wash and disinfect the
 Sprinkle some feeds on the
brooder. newspapers when the chicks
 Ensure that the brooder has arrive.
round corners.  Provide dim light/right
 Ensure that it is well temperature.
ventilated but draught free.  Provide a wire guard around
 Ensure that the brooder is the heat source.
spacious.
© Sam obare 12-May-21
31

2. Describe management of  Clean and disinfect the

chicks in the brooder. brooder occasionally to
 On arrival supply water control parasites and
mixed with glucose. diseases.
 Feed chicks on fresh chick  Remove any dead chicks
marsh. and properly dispose them
off.
 Provide clean water.
 Check and maintain the
 Provide adequate feed.
appropriate range of
 Vaccinate the chicks if they temperature in the
were not vaccinated in the brooder.
hatchery.

© Sam obare 12-May-21

32

 Dust against ectoparasites.  Isolate and treat sick chicks

 Deworm against  Properly dispose off dead
endoparasites. chicks.
 Provide coccidiostats in  Provide grit to chicks.
water/feed to control  Keep proper records.
coccidiosis.
 Debeak at 8-10 weeks of age.
 Provide dim light to avoid
toe pecking.  Change the feeds gradually.
 Introduce roosts from 6
week.
 Gradually introduce growers
marsh from 7th week.

© Sam obare 12-May-21

 growers/pullets (between 9th
33
week-point of lay) in a poultry
house.
Feed the growers on growers mash. Provide enough waterers and

feeders.
 Supplement with grains.
 Hang greens in the house to keep  Clean and disinfect the waterers and
them busy and to provide vitamins. feeders regularly.
 Introduce soluble grit during the  Provide enough space/avoid
last week to provide calcium overcrowding.
important for shell formation.  Keep litter dry by regular turning/
 Provide feed and clean water ad scattering grains on the floor for the
libitum. birds to scratch.
 Vaccinate against diseases.  Provide enough roosts and perches
for birds to perch on.
 Dust against ecto -parasites.
 Introduce layers mash gradually
 Drench against endo- parasites. from 18th week.
 Control predators.

© Sam obare 12-May-21

 Management of layers in a
34
poultry house.
 Provide enough space.  Dispose off broken eggs.
 Keep the litter dry.  Debeak when necessary.
 Hang greens for exercise, provide vitamins and  Provide enough grit.
prevent cannibalism.  Cull poor layers and cannibals.
 Scatter some grains on the floor for exercise  Isolate and treat sick birds.
and turning of litter.
 Vaccinate against newcastle and fowl
 Provide enough roosts and perches for birds to typhoid diseases every 6 months.
perch on.
 Avoid stress factors.
 Provide enough feeders and waterers.
 Dust against ectoparasites.
 Keep the equipment clean.
 Deworm against endoparasites.
 Provide layers mash or pellets and clean water
ad libitum.  Keep proper records.
 Supplement with grains, vitamins and minerals. Provide enough laying nests.
 Provide soluble grit or oyster shell which
encourages strong shelled eggs and efficient
digestion.
 Collect eggs twice a day (at noon and evening).
© Sam obare 12-May-21
 .
35

Causes of low egg 9. Presence of predators

production in layers. /strangers.
1. Overcrowded housing. 10. Sudden changes of feeds.
2. Fighting /pecking. 11. Sudden noise.
3. Lack of adequate clean 12. Sudden change in
water. weather.
4. Parasite infestation.
13. Disease infestation.
5. Inadequate feeding.
14. Inferior/poor feeds.
6. Old age.
15. Inadequate laying nests.
7. Broodiness.
8. Inadequate
waterers/feeders. © Sam obare 12-May-21
36

Management practices that Categories of poultry feeds

ensure maximum egg production. i. Chick marsh
 Proper feeding
ii. Growers marsh
 Provision of enough laying nests
iii. Layers marsh
 Proper housing
iv. Broiler starter marsh
 Parasite and disease control
v. Broiler follow on
 Regular collection of eggs
vi. Broiler finisher
 Provision of correct light intensity

 Protection from predators

 Debeaking to stop cannibalism

 Provision of greens to keep them

busy and for exercise

© Sam obare 12-May-21

 Management/rearing of
37
broilers in a poultry house.
 Feed the chicks on broiler  Maintain hygiene in the house.
starter mash.  Dust against ectoparasites.
 Deworm against endoparasites.
 The feed should contain  Vaccinate against common diseases
coccidiostat to control e.g. new castle.
coccidiosis.  Dispose off dead chicken properly.
 Provide enough feed with high  Provide adequate waterers and
feeders.
level of proteins, vitamins and  Keep the litter dry and free from
mineral salts and clean water dust.
which are essential for rapid  Ensure adequate supply of greens
earlier growth.. and grains.
 Isolate and treat sick birds.
 Gradually introduce broiler  Keep proper records.
finisher mash.
 Have the correct stocking rate. © Sam obare 12-May-21
38

Practices that help in control Measures observed to prevent disease

of parasites and diseases in a outbreak in poultry house/
poultry house. Management practices that ensure
 Vaccination against diseases. proper hygiene in poultry house.
 Dusting against ecto parasites.
 Provide a foot bath at the entrance.
 Deworming against endo
parasites.  Screen the poultry house against dust and
wild birds.
 Treating sick birds.

 Isolating sick/dead birds to

 Remove any dead birds and dispose off
prevent the spread of diseases. properly.
 Washing and disinfecting  Control visitors into the poultry houses.
waterers and feeders.
 Regularly clean and disinfect feeders and
 Keeping the litter dry.
waterers.
 Providing a foot bath at the
entrance to prevent infections.  Ensure that the feed is free from pathogens.
 Isolate/cull sick birds.
© Sam obare 12-May-21
 Treat sick birds.
 POULTRY REARING SYSTEMS.
39

Factors affecting the choice of a  The rearing systems include:

rearing system. A. Extensive system.
i. Availability of land for rearing. B. Semi-intensive system.
ii. Topography of land to facilitate C. Intensive system.
drainage.
iii. Availability of labour. A. Free range system .
iv. Availability of appropriate  This is an extensive system where
equipment. the hens are allowed to move freely
v. Availability of capital. in a fenced ground with a simple
vi. Security. house to provide shelter at night.
vii. Availability of market.  Laying nests are also placed in this
house.
viii. Knowledge of the farmer.
 Feed and water troughs are placed
outside but protected from rain by a
simple shelter.

© Sam obare 12-May-21

40

Requirements of free range c) House- it should be

system constructed to provide
a) Land- it must be large, shelter and an area for
well drained and with trees laying nests.
for shelter. The external  The house can be movable or
fence is required to prevent constructed at the centre of
the birds from straying. the runs.
b) Runs- these are
partitioned areas within the
land to facilitate rotation.
This reduces disease and
parasite build up.

© Sam obare 12-May-21

41

Advantages of free range/ extensive Disadvantages.

system. 1. Requires a lot of land which may not be
1. Less feed is used since birds pick insects available if many birds have to be kept.
and vegetation from the ground. 2. Birds can be stolen or eaten by predators.
2. Manure is evenly spread within the runs 3. Eggs can get lost in the runs.
which facilitate vegetation to regenerate.
4. Eggs can get dirty.
3. Cannibalism and egg eating are reduced
because the birds are not crowded and are 5. It is difficult to keep proper records/ close
free within the runs. supervision for individual birds.
4. It requires low capital investment. 6. Breeding programme is not easy to follow.
5. Birds can pick grit from the soil hence 7. The range can be easily infested with
there is no need of providing them with diseases and parasites/ may lead to
grit. parasite and disease spread.
6. Birds have plenty of exercise thus helping 8. Birds can cause damage to crops if the
to keep good health. perimeter fence is not properly
constructed.

© Sam obare 12-May-21

42

B. Semi-intensive system/fold  One part of the part of the fold is

system. covered with corrugated iron
 In this system birds are confined in
sheet/ metal/ plastic/grass (thatch)
movable structures called for shelter and laying/for laying
folds/arks. nests.
 Folds are moved daily to:
 The other part is covered with wire
mesh for:
i. Reduce build up of diseases and
parasites. i. Sunning/basking and,
ii. provide fresh grass. ii. feeding on vegetation.
iii. Avoid accumulation of droppings.  The feeders and waterers should be
placed on the open side of the fold.
iv. Allow even spread of manure
which facilitate vegetation
regeneration.
 For easy the movement the
folds/arks are fitted with wheels.

© Sam obare 12-May-21

43

Fold system/ semi- Fold system/ semi-

intensive system intensive system

© Sam obare 12-May-21

44

Advantages of fold/semi- Disadvantages of fold system.

intensive system. 1. Few birds are kept per fold/
1. Less feed is used as birds eat accomodates few birds.
vegetation. 2. It requires a lot of labor to
2. There is even distribution of move folds from one place to
manure/droppings. another.
3. Requires less feeding/Birds 3. It is difficult to keep
pick grit from the soil. production records for
individual birds.
4. Reduces the build up of
parasites and diseases. 4. Egg eating and cannibalism are
very common.
5. Protects birds from predators.
5. Damage/breakage of the fold
due to frequent movements.

© Sam obare 12-May-21

45

C. INTENSIVE REARING Requirements of a deep litter

SYSTEMS. system
 In this system, birds are confined in
houses or structures throughout the 1. Site- the area where the house is
laying period. built should be well drained.
 All the necessary requirements are
provided in the structures. 2. House- it should have the
 There are two intensive rearing following features:
systems, namely:
a) A roof which is leak proof.
i. Deep litter system.
ii. Battery cage system. b) The wall on the leeward side should
open from 60-90cm above the
i) Deep litter system. ground for ventilation. The open
 In this system, birds are totally area is covered with wire mesh
confined in a house and stay indoors
for the whole of their lives.  The wire mesh is made solid with
timber, stone or concrete to prevent
© Sam obare 12-May-21
draught in the house.
46

c) The floor of the house  When new litter is introduced, it

should be mixed with a little of
should have litter 15-30 cm the old so as to introduce
deep made from sawdust, bacteria which help the litter to
wood shavings, crushed rot
maize cobs, coffee husks and  The floor space requirement
should be 1 square metre per 2-3
rice husks. birds.
 Litter keeps the floor warm 3. Feeders and waterers- they
and absorbs moisture. should be enough and kept
clean. They should be placed at
 The litter should be kept as various points in the chicken
house so that chicken do not
dry as possible, turned crowd and contaminate the feed
regularly to mix droppings and water.
and prevent it from caking.
 Grains are thrown on the © Sam obare 12-May-21
47

4. Roosts and perches-  Laying nests should have

they are timber frames the following
on which birds perch. requirements:
They should be moveable i. Large enough to
so that droppings do not accommodate the bird
accumulate too much at
ii. Kept in a secluded place
certain points causing
dampness. iii. Kept dark to avoid vices
5. Nests- they are laying iv. With dry nesting
boxes. materials
v. With lockable doors

© Sam obare 12-May-21

48

Advantages of deep litter system. Disadvantages of deep litter

system.
1. Many birds can be reared in a small
area hence allowing high stocking 1. The incidence of cannibalism, egg
rate. eating, feather plucking and toe-
pecking are common.
2. There is no loss of eggs.
2. There is likelihood of parasite and
3. There is fast accumulation and disease accumulation in the litter.
collection of manure. 3. It is difficult to keep record of
4. It requires less labour in collecting individual birds.
eggs, and turning the litter. 4. Litter may be difficult to find in
5. Birds are safe from predators and some areas.
thieves. 5. Eggs may get dirty especially if
laid on the floor or if the nesting
6. The system can be used in rearing
boxes are not clean.
breeding stock. © Sam obare 12-May-21
6. Litter can contaminate water and
49 © Sam obare 12-May-21
50

ii. Battery cage system.  The lowest tier is normally

 In this system birds are 60-90cm above the ground
confined in wire mesh cages to allow for easy cleaning.
throughout the laying  Feeders and water troughs
period. are placed on the front side
 The cages are arranged in of the cages.
rows which are built over
one another to form ties.
 The cages have slanting
floors to allow rolling of
eggs to the tray. The eggs are
collected from a tray behind
the tiers.
© Sam obare 12-May-21
51

© Sam obare 12-May-21

52

Advantages of battery cage 7. Handling is easy as hens are

system. restricted to a small place.
1. There is higher egg production 8. Broodiness is discouraged as the
due to less energy wastage by birds do not reach the eggs.
birds. 9. A large number of birds can be
2. Accurate egg records can be kept kept in a small space hence higher
because it is easy to know which stocking rate.
bird has laid. 10. Sick birds can be detected easily
3. Cannibalism and egg eating are and isolated for treatment.
controlled. 11. Wire floors prevent re-infestation
4. Eggs are clean because birds do of parasitic worms and coccidia.
not step on them. 12. There is no bullying during
5. The system can easily be feeding.
mechanized. 13. There is low labour requirement.
6. Birds do not contaminate food and
water.
© Sam obare 12-May-21
53

Disadvantages of battery cage system. STRESS IN POULTRY.

1. It requires high initial capital hence very  Stress is any cause of discomfort in birds.
expensive. Causes of stress in poultry.
2. It requires high level of management or 1. Any sudden change e.g. change of
technical knowledge. feed.
3. In case of disease outbreak, spreading is 2. Presence of strangers and predators
very fast. e.g. mongoose in the poultry house.
4. Birds develop bruises on combs, breast 3. Handling of birds e.g. during
and toes as they stick their necks out to vaccination, culling, debeaking etc.
eat and walk on the cages.
4. Sudden noise e.g. passing of tractor or
5. The birds do not have enough room for thunder.
exercise.
5. Sudden change of weather e.g. from
6. The system is not good for brooding warm to cold weather.
purposes.
6. Diseases and parasite infestation.
7. Lack of food and water.

© Sam obare 12-May-21

54

Control measures of stress. POULTRY VICES.

1. Keep the poultry house quiet  A vice is abnormal behavior in birds and

by building it away from road include egg eating and cannibalism.

where people and vehicles pass. a) Causes of egg eating
2. Insulate the poultry house to 1. Presence of broken o soft-shelled eggs.
maintain uniform temperature. 2. Bright light in the nests allowing the
birds to see the eggs.
3. Control diseases and parasites.
3. Idleness.
4. Change of routine program 4. Inadequate nests forcing birds to lay
should be gradual. eggs on the floor.
5. Provide enough feed and water. 5. Lack of minerals e.g. calcium making
the birds to look for them from
elsewhere.
6. Inadequate feed.

© Sam obare 12-May-21

55

Control of egg eating. b) Cannibalism- this is a condition

1. Collect the eggs regularly. where birds peck each other.
Causes of cannibalism in poultry
2. Making the laying nests dark.
1. External parasites- a bird may
3. Debeaking perpetual egg want to remove a parasite e.g. flea
eaters. from combs of others.
4. Keeping the birds busy by 2. Overcrowding- this makes the
supplying green leaves. birds see others closely and it is
5. Feeding the birds on balanced easy for them to detect what to
diet/ ration peck at.
3. Bright light- this makes the toe
6. Scatter the grains on the litter of chicks shine leading to toe
to enable birds to scratch for pecking.
them.
7. Provide enough feed.

© Sam obare 12-May-21

56

4. Prolapse- it occurs when the 3. Provide birds with balanced

cloaca does not retract after feeds.
laying egg hence the cloaca is 4. Birds should be kept
pecked at by others. according to age.
5. Mineral deficiency- 5. Control external parasites.
unbalanced feed makes the birds
6. Keep the birds busy by
to try to get minerals elsewhere.
hanging green leaves or
6. Introduction of new bird in vegetables in the house.
a flock- this causes fighting
7. Debeak hens which peck
leading to cannibalism after
others.
injury.
8. Cull perpetual cannibals.
Control of cannibalism
© Sam obare 12-May-21
1. Avoid bright light in the house.
57

MARKETING OF POULTRY iii. Candling quality- eggs of high

PRODUCTS. candling quality are preferred.
1. Eggs iv. Egg color- some consumers
a) Sorting and grading of eggs. prefer brown eggs to white eggs.
Factors to consider when sorting b) Packaging of eggs- they should
eggs for market. be packed in trays with their broad
end facing up to maintain gaseous
i. Cleanliness- eggs should be exchange.
kept clean by wiping them using a
damp clean piece of cloth. c) Marketing of eggs- they are
sold directly to consumers or
ii. The size of the egg- large eggs through cooperative societies.
have higher market price than
small ones. Sorting should be
done into 3 grades, small,
medium and large before
marketing.

© Sam obare 12-May-21

58

2. Chicken meat. 2. Killing with a sharp knife-

a) Methods of killing birds- the legs and wings are held
firmly and the neck is cut
1. Dislocating the head- the instantly.
hen is starved for 12 hours to
avoid the carcass from turning  The bird is then hung by the feet
green. in order to allow blood drain.
 The legs of the bird are held
firmly with the left hand the head
is twisted backwards and down
ward with a sharp thrust.
 The bird is then hung by the feet
so that blood may drain from the
body.

© Sam obare 12-May-21

59

Procedure of dressing  Insert the index finger as far

chicken for sale. as possible into the body
 Lay the bird on its breast on cavity through the opening
the table. left after removing the neck
and crop.
 Pull and cut off the skin of
the neck at the point where  Work around the finger close
the neck enters the body. to the body to loosen the
organs from the ribs and the
 Cut the neck from the head
back.
at the point of dislocation/
the cut.  Turn the bird and hold the
abdomen with the left hand.
 Turn the carcass on its back.

 Grasp and gently pull the

crop
© Sam obare 12-May-21
60

 Make a horizontal cut  Insert the right hand into the

between the vent and the abdominal opening gently
keel bone to expose the grab the gizzard and pull it
intestines. out accompanied with other
 Insert a finger into the internal organs.
abdomen through the cut and  Cut the skin around the
loop around the vent to close shank to remove the sinus
the intestines. just below the hocks and pull
 Hold the intestines away them out strongly from the
from the vent and then cut body.
around with the bowels still  Detach the shanks.
attached.  Pack the carcass in polythene
paper for sale.

© Sam obare 12-May-21

61

Routine management 3. Feeding- Provide feed ad

practices in poultry. libitum.
1. Parasite control- Done: 4. Disease control- Done
i. By dusting, spraying or by use of antibiotics,
dusting the poultry house. vaccination and keeping
the poultry house clean.
ii. Through deworming.
5. Egg collection- Done
iii. By replacing the litter to regularly to prevent egg
prevent the parasite build eating in birds.
up.
2. Debeaking- Done to
prevent cannibalism and
egg eating.

© Sam obare 12-May-21

62

5. Culling- Refers to removal Ways of differentiating

of unproductive birds from between a poor and good
the flock. layer.
Causes of culling in  They include:
poultry/factors that
necessitate culling. i. Observation of the
i. Poor growth. physical characteristics.
ii. Poor ii. Trap nesting- a nest is
laying/production/yield. built in such a way that
iii. Old age.
when the hen enters to
lay it does not come out.
iv. Vices.
 Those that enter to lay are
v. Poor health/Chronic marked thus those not
diseases/parasite and disease marked are poor layers
attack.
© Sam obare 12-May-21
 Observing physical characteristics.
63

Good layer. Poor layer.

1. Combs and wattles are
1. Combs and wattles are small, cold, dry and scaly.
large, warm, waxy and
2. Eyes are dull and pale
red. yellow.
2. Eyes are bright and alert. 3. The beak is yellow in
3. The beak is pale. colour.
4. The vent is oval, moist, 4. The vent is round, dry and
reddish and active. less active.
5. Abdomen/breast is soft. 5. The abdomen/breast is
hard.
© Sam obare 12-May-21
64

Good layer Poor layer

6. The space between the keel 6. The space between the keel
and pelvic bone is wide i.e. and pelvic bone is narrow
can fit 3-4 fingers. i.e. can fit 1-2 fingers.
7. Temperament (It is alert 7. Temperament(It is lazy and
and active). dull).
8. Plumage/feathers are dry 8. Plumage/Feathers are
and rugged. beautiful/glossy.
9. Moulting starts late. 9. Moulting starts early.
10. Shanks are pale. 10. Shanks are yellowish.
11. Broodiness is rare. 11. Broodiness is common.
© Sam obare 12-May-21
65
Marketing of eggs
Practices carried out on eggs in preparation for Desirable qualities of
marketing.
marketable eggs.
i. Checking out the abnormalities/candling.
ii. Selecting eggs of the right size/weight. 1. Large/heavy.
iii. Cleaning/wiping the dirt.
iv. Sorting and grading.
2. Brown.
Factors to consider when sorting and grading 3. Clean.
(selecting) eggs for marketing.
i. Size of the egg. 4. Smooth shelled.
Colour of the eggs.
ii.
5. Oval/normal
iii. Cleanliness of the egg.
iv. Shell quality/ texture e.g. broken or rough. shaped.
v. Candling qualities e.g. freshness 6. Fresh.
vi. The shape of the eggs.

© Sam obare 12-May-21