Bv 300 Layer Management Guide

Contents

BV-300 The Businessman's Bird

Commercial Layer Management Guide

Page No. 1

Types of Housing .......................................... 1

2

Rearing Program ......................................... 12

3

Feeding ........................................................ 17

4

Debeaking ................................................... 30

5

Vaccination .................................................. 31

6

Lighting ....................................................... 32

7

Disinfection & Biosecurity ......................... 36

8

Record Keeping ........................................... 44

9

Production Standards ................................. 46

10

Performance Goals ...................................... 48

Introduction

Types of Housing

Continuous research and development upon BV-300 has made it a highly refined breed of excellent genetic potential and one of the best layer breeds existing in the world today. BV-300 has proved its ability to perform under various agro-climatic conditions. BV-300 is recognised as the most adaptable, consistent and prolific egg layer, thereby enjoying over 85% market share in India for the last three decades.

BV-300

Profit margins in poultry business have shrunk due to increased capital investment and operative expenses to the producer. Hence, efficient management of BV-300 is the key to success of poultry farming.

The houses may be environmentally controlled houses or

can be reared in a deep litter system as well as in

cages. There are three types of houses required for rearing: l

The brooder house

l

The grower house &

l

The layer house

open sided houses. In India, open sided houses find favour and have proven successful. Lengthwise, poultry houses should be in an east-west

Management guide for BV-300 commercial layers has been produced for efficient and sound management techniques. BV-300 chicks represent the finest genetic package and have been bred-in for profits. However, management skill alone can realize the profits. This guide reveals the basic principles of layer management. Being a guide it is not a guarantee for performance. The conditions provided to the birds will only be responsible for making profit or loss

direction. The sheds should be well ventilated with even light distribution all over the house. Sheds should be constructed with rat-proof projections and should have an overhang (i.e. the outward projection of the roofing sheet) of five feet. Windows may be provided in the gable walls. Chicken wire mesh or chain link (3/4 sq.inch) should be provided lengthwise, on both sides in open sided houses.

1

The advantages of open-sided houses are: l

Less capital investment.

l

Minimum use of electricity as compared to that of environmentally controlled houses.

Deep Litter System Equipment

For brooding every 300 pullet chicks, the following items of equipments are necessary: l

l

The ventilation is not dependent on electricity.

One brooder made of bamboo or tin, 6 ft in diameter and a brooder guard made of tin or cardboard. Tin may

Brooding and growing of birds are carried out either in

be preferred as it is easy to clean and disinfect.

deep litter or in cages. However, laying birds are

(20 ft long and 18" high cardboard sheet or tin made in

generally housed in cages.

perfect circle to function as brooder guard for this size of brooder) l

Three water fountains with a capacity of two litres each

l

Three feeder lids or equivalent

l

Wall hanging type of thermometer to check room temperature and also to check the temperature at chick level

l

2

Brooding lights or electric thermo-coils or gas brooders

3

It is essential to ensure movement of air without creating a draught at the chick level. Similarly, arrangements to reduce flow of cold air in winter should also be provided. It is necessary to provide sufficient feeding and watering space to birds, to avoid needless struggle amongst the birds for feed and water which could interfere with overall

Cage System Brooder Cages

The birds can be reared in cages right from day one. The following requirements should be met with while designing the cages for chicks.

development of all the birds.

l

Chicks should be kept warm but not hot.

The requirement of feeder and water space for deep litter:

l

Chicks should easily reach feed and water.

l

Cages should have enough light so that chicks can

Weeks

Floor (sq.feet)

Feeder (inches)

Water (chicks/nipple)

0-4 5-8 9-14

0.5 1.0 1.2

1" 1" 2"

16 8 6

If bell type water fountains are used for the drinking water system, a standard round drinker should be kept, one for maximum 100 chicks or 75 growers or 50 layers.

locate waterers and feeders easily. Each cage should have an access to two watering devices so that if one cup or nipple fails, birds will not remain without water. Brooder cages may have different sizes. The size may be 30" width, 15" depth and 15" height, i.e., a floor area of 450 sq.inches which can accommodate 15 chicks up to 7 weeks of age. The bottom of these cages should be flat and have a mesh of 0.5" x 0.5".

4

5

Specifications for Brooder Cage

Sr. No.

Particulars

Commercial Chicks (Upto 7th Week)

Gas Brooding

Use of LPG operated Gas Brooders gives much more uniform heat as compared to conventional types of

1.

System

2 Tier (Reversible)

brooding practices like Electric Lamps, Coal or Wood

2.

No. of birds/box

15

Heaters. The radiant Gas Brooder creates micro-climate

3.

Bottom/Upper Tier

30" x 15" x 15"

for the chicks so that they can choose their most

4.

Floor space/bird

30 sq.inches

comfortable place and warmth at any time. This results in

5.

Feed Trough

22 G Aluminium Feeders

proper growth and weight gain which is more uniform. LPG Gas Brooding can be done either by Central Control

Total number of chicks per box would vary depending upon the age. The recommended numbers are: 30 chicks/box between 0-3 weeks and 15 chicks/box upto 7 week.

System or by Individually Controlled Infra Red radiant gas b r o o d e r s . Yo u s h o u l d remember that any brooding system must have a

3°

temperature control device. The advantage of temperature control is in energy saving and to meet the precise heat

90-130 cm 10-25 cm

requirement of the birds which changes with their age.

6

7

Infra Red Radiant Brooder can be placed 90 to 130 cm

Grower Cages

above the ground level depending upon the heat

The size of the grower cage is generally 18" width, 15" depth and 15" height. This provides a floor area of 270 sq.inches and can accommodate 5 birds from 8 weeks of age up to 16 weeks of age allowing for 54 sq.inches per bird. The bottom of these cages is flat and should have a mesh of 0.5" x 1.0".

requirement. The number and types of Gas Brooders can be decided as per the specifications of the Gas Brooder. It is very important to note that the Gas Brooder which you select spells out the specifications in terms of BTU or kW rating and operating pressures, etc. It is always safe to

Specifications for Grower Cages

select the brooder which has got an international quality mark for safety and reliability. Before chicks arrive, ensure that filled LPG Gas Cylinders are available at the site. 0

0

Maintain temperature of 32 to 34 C on day one. Measure the same at 10 to 25 cm above the litter level. Lower the temperature approximately by 30C per week until attaining 0

a temperature of 25 C. The temperature can be sensed by a sensor connected to the individual Gas Brooders or to the Central Control System.

Sr. No.

Particulars

Commercial Grower (8 weeks - 16 weeks)

1

System

3 Tier (Reversible)

2.

No. of birds/box

5

3.

Bottom Tier

18" x 15" x 15"

4.

Middle Tier

18" x 15" x 15"

5.

Upper Tier

18" x 15" x 15"

6.

Floor space/bird

54 sq.inch

7.

Feed Trough

22 G Aluminium Feeders

Layer Cages

The bottoms of layer cages have slants to facilitate the easy rolling out of eggs once they are laid. Therefore the height of layer cages is less at the back than in front. 8

9

The size of the layer cage could be of 15" width, 12" depth and 15" height at the back and 17.5" height in front. This cage provides a floor area of 180 sq.inches and can accommodate 3 laying birds providing an area of 60 sq.inches per bird. The birds are kept in these cages from the 17th week till end of their productive life. A Nipple drinking system is preferred but provision for an additional open water channel will depend upon the severity of summer in that area.

Laying House l

Light bulbs or fluorescent tubes should be so located that the feeders and waterers receive light directly.

l

Artificial light should be evenly distributed all over the house.

l

Flourescent bulbs/tubes should be cleaned at regular intervals.

l

Eggs should be able to roll out smoothly, avoiding collision or breakage.

l

The height of the cage-stands should be such that the workers should be able to see them well enough to spot dead birds or non-functioning equipment.

l

Adequate ventilation should be provided in the laying house. Sheds should be protected from extreme heat or cold by providing adequate insulation or curtains.

l

Provide adequate clean feed storage

l

Preventing the entry of rats, wild birds, parasites, etc. should be a point to remember while designing the poultry house.

l

Dead birds should be removed daily and disposed off by burning them in an incinerator or by proper burial.

Specifications For Layer Cages

Sr. No.

Particulars

Commercial Grower (17th week onwards)

1.

System

3 Tier

2.

No. of birds/box

3

3.

Bottom Tier

15" x 12" x 15"

4.

Middle Tier

15" x 12" x 15"

5.

Upper Tier

15" x 12" x 15"

6.

Floor space/bird

60 sq.inch

7.

Feed Trough

22 G Aluminium Feeders

Note: Depending upon the age of the housing birds, nipple drinking system may be located suiting to the convenience of birds.

10

11

Rearing Program the half way mark to an excellent st

BV-300

performance.

th

(1 to 20 week)

The BV-300 is equipped with the genetic potential of producing 320 eggs in her commercial life. However, this production can only be achieved if the chicks are provided with all due care in its brooding stage. If reared scientifically, the chicks will have standard and uniform body weight and the mortality will be negligible. Therefore, maximum attention should be paid while rearing the chicks in their brooding stage.

Brooding the chicks is an important and skillful part of good poultry management. Brooding is the base for the production of a good pullet. Heating devices in the shed should be switched on at least six hours before the expected arrival time of chicks in cool seasons, so that the shed is heated to required temperature before chicks are placed in the shed. Waterers should be filled with water, electrolytes and anti-stress preparations.

A rearing program should satisfy the following goals: l

l

Ensure that the tyre dip at the entrance of the farm is filled

At least 80% of the birds should be in the range of the

with the right disinfectant in correct dilution, so that the

standard body weight + 10%. The flock should be

wheels of all incoming delivery vans containing chicks

uniform. Birds should not be fatty or underweight.

will be disinfected at the entrance. The water in the tyre dip

Birds should be completely healthy, free from internal

should be changed periodically.

and external parasites, and immune to all endemic viral Water

and bacterial infections. Preparations for Arrival of Chicks Well begun is half done.

Conforming to this proverb,

a well managed brooding program is like meeting 12

Water to be given to the birds should be fresh, clean and potable. (The table on next page gives standards for water quality.) 13

Drinking Water Standards Particulars No. of Bacteria/ml No. of Coliforms/ml

While collecting water samples for bacterial/

Maximum Permissible Limit 0 -300

Organic Substances

1 mg/litre

Ammonia Cloudiness/Turbidity

following:

10-50

Hydrometric Level Nitrates

microbiological testing, care should be taken regarding the

l

Water samples should be collected in sterile bottles. Untreated water should be collected directly from the source of water supply.

0-15 mg/litre 0 mg/litre 5U

Iron

0.3 mg/litre

Manganese

0.1 mg/litre

Copper

1.0 mg/litre

l

Water treated with some water sanitizer should be collected from storage tanks, water pipelines and waterers.

Water Consumption

5 mg/litre

Water consumption of poultry birds varies substantially,

Calcium

75 mg/litre

depending upon the ambient temperature, humidity,

Magnesium

50 mg/litre

temperature of water and age of birds. Please do not

Sulphates

200 mg/litre

restrict quantity of drinking water to be offered to the birds.

Chlorides

200 mg/litre

The following table gives the general guidelines on the

6.8-7.5

quantity of water consumed by 100 birds of different

Zinc

pH

age groups, daily at an ambient temperature of 280C (820 F):

14

15

Feeding Age of Birds (weeks) 1&2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20

Water/100 Birds/Day (litres) 4.80 5.40 7.50 10.50 12.00 13.20 14.40 14.70 15.00 15.30 16.20 16.80 17.40 18.00 18.60 18.90 19.80 22.50 24.60

Note: Water consumption would differ depending upon the temperature and agro-climatic conditions.

16

While the genetic potential of BV-300 for egg production has made consistent and considerable progress, simultaneously the bird's adaptability to various agroclimatic conditions, feeding practices and management practices has also improved tremendously over the last few decades. However, to optimise profits, it is necessary to provide economic but nutritionally balanced feed to obtain desired production. There are a number of agro-climatic zones with varying seasons and temperatures. As nutritional requirements vary from area to area and season to season, you may need to consult the local

BV-300

expert for designing feed

formulation. However, in subsequent pages we have described general nutritional requirements for

BV-300.

Summer makes the bird eat less and hence, efforts should be made to increase their nutritional density and bring down the temperature in the house by various means. Similarly birds tend to eat more in winter and therefore, there is a need to make necessary changes in feed formulations. Feed consumption should also be correctly monitored so that correct nutrient levels can be provided. 17

Feed used in all phases of the life cycle of poultry birds must meet the following criteria: l

l

Nutrients should be supplied in proper proportions and in a form which is bio-available to the birds.

nutritional value of soybean. The level of roasting of soybean can be judged by feed analytical laboratories. l

Texture, color, taste of feed must be acceptable to the birds.

l

Feed must not be dusty.

l

Ideally feed must be free from following contaminants : a. All pathogenic organisms b. Harmful chemicals and c. Toxins If animal by-products like meat-meal, fish-meal, livermeal, blood-meal and hydrolysed feather-meal are used, care should be taken to ensure that they are absolutely free from all types of contaminants.

Calcium should be added to the feed in form of oystershell with particle size of 2.5 mm to 3.5 mm If calcium rd

is to be added in form of limestone, 2/3 should be used rd

as large particles (3-5 mm) and only 1/3 in the form of powder. Limestone so used, should be low in magnesium. l

Contamination of feed during storage, transport and delivery must be avoided. Wild-birds and rodents can contaminate the feed in any of the above stages.

l

If you are making your own feed, formulate your feed according to the season, age & body weight and production level of the birds. The formulations should be based on the actual weight of different ingredients

l

18

Soybean meal, used in poultry feed, must have been properly roasted. Inadequate or excess heat during processing of soybean for oil extraction will damage the

and the accurate valuation of each feed ingredient before they are added together.

19

Feeding Recommendations for BV-300 Chick Mash

Layer Feed

Layer feed offered to the laying birds should be formulated according to the age of the birds and egg production.

Chick mash should be fed to the birds from its arrival until the average body weight of the birds reaches 580 gms. This is a feed-to-weight program rather than feed-to-age program. Body weight gains are better with pelleted/ crumbled feed compared to mash feed. Therefore it is

Accordingly, layer feed can be divided into three groups i.e. Phase I , Phase II and Phase III. Phase I feed should be given upto the age of 40 weeks and later Phase II ration may be given. Phase III feed should be given after the age of 60 weeks.

recommended to use pelleted/crumbled chick feed. Grower Mash

Phase feeding saves money.

The grower feed should be fed till flock reaches an average body weight of 1100 gms. Do not administer prelay feed to the birds weighing below 1100 gms. Prelay Feed

Care should be taken to ensure prelay feed is introduced after the flock attains an average body weight of 1100 gms and usually for two to three weeks.

20

21

Suggested Nutritional Requirements

Chick Mash

Chicks & Growers

Grower Mash

(upto - 580 gms)

(580 -1100 gms)

Metabolizable Energy kcal/kg

2750

2500

Crude Protein % (min.)

20.5

17

Methionine % (min.)

0.45

0.35

Vitamin B-12 mg/kg (added)

Lysine % (min.)

1.04

0.80

Riboflavin mg/kg (added)

Calcium % (min.)

1.00

1.00

Available Phosphorous % (min.)

0.45

0.40

Vitamins Vitamin A I.U./kg (added)

12500

12500

2500

2500

4

4

40

40

0.015

0.015

8

8

Niacin mg/kg (added)

50

50

Pantothenic Acid mg/kg (added)

20

20

Vitamin D3 I.U./kg (added) Vitamin K3 (MSB) mg/kg (added) Vitamin E I.U./kg (added)

Sodium % (max.)

0.18 - 0.20 0.18 - 0.20

Folic Acid mg/kg (added)

2

2

Chloride % (max.)

0.18 - 0.20 0.18 - 0.20

Thiamin mg/kg (added)

3

3

Pyridoxine mg/kg (added)

4.5

4.5

Biotin mg/kg (added)

0.1

0.1

50

50

600

250

Linoleic Acid % (min.)

1.20

1.00

Minerals Manganese mg/kg (added)

80

80

Vitamin C mg/kg (added)

Zinc mg/kg (added)

80

80

Choline mg/kg (added)

Iron mg/kg (added)

60

60

Copper mg/kg (added)

15

15

Iodine mg/kg (added)

1

1

0.3

0.3

Selenium mg/kg (added) 22

(upto-580 gms) (580-1100 gms)

Chick Mash Nutrients

Grower Mash

Note: Additional 0.05 mg/kg biotin should be given in feed to the chicks brooded in cages or where feed is mixed with bajra or millet. • Expected crude fibre level : Chick feed - 5% maximum Grower feed - 7% maximum • Summer : Consult Nutritionist to decide nutritional requirements for summer season.

23

Suggested Nutritional Requirements

Prelay Feed Phase I **

Prelay & Laying Period Prelay Feed Phase I ** (Age in Weeks)

(16-18)

(19-40)

Phase II

Phase III

(41-60)

(61 to Liquidation)

Nutrients

(16-18)

(19-40)

(41-60)

(61 to Liquidation)

Vitamin A I.U./kg (added)

12500

12500

12500

12500

2500

2500

2500

2500

Vitamins

2500

2500

2450

2450

Vitamin D3 I.U./kg (added)

l7

17.5

16

15.5

Vitamin K3 (MSB) mg/kg (added) 4

4

4

4

Methionine % (min.)

0.40

0.40

0.30

0.30

Vitamin E I.U./kg (added)

40

40

40

40

Lysine % (min.)

0.72

0.80

0.70

0.70

Vitamin B-12 mg/kg (added)

0.015

0.015

0.015

0.015

Calcium % (min.)

2.5

3.60

4.00

4.00

Riboflavin mg/kg (added)

8

8

8

8

Available Phosphorous % (min.) 0.4

0.35

0.30

0.30

Niacin mg/kg (added)

30

30

30

30

Metabolizable Energy kcal/kg Crude Protein % (min.)

Sodium % (max.)

0.18-0.20 0.18-0.20 0.18-0.20 0.18-0.20

Pantothenic Acid mg/kg (added)

10

10

10

10

Chloride % (max.)

0.18-0.20 0.18-0.20 0.18-0.20 0.18-0.20

Folic Acid mg/kg (added)

1

1

1

1

Thiamin mg/kg (added)

2

2

2

2

Pyridoxine mg/kg (added)

3

3

3

3

Biotin mg/kg (added)

0.1

0.1

0.1

0.1

Vitamin C mg/kg (added)

50

50

50

50

Choline mg/kg (added) (min.)

500

500

500

500

Linoleic Acid %

1.40

1.40

1.20

1.20

Minerals Manganese mg/kg (added)

80

80

80

80

Zinc mg/kg (added)

80

80

80

80

Iron mg/kg (added)

60

60

60

60

Copper mg/kg (added)

15

15

15

15

Iodine mg/kg (added)

1

1

1

1

0.3

0.3

0.3

0.3

Selenium mg/kg (added)

24

(Age in Weeks)

Phase II Phase III

Refer Standard Chart for feed consumption on page numbers 30 & 31.

25

Note: l

l.

l

l.

26

**Care should be taken to ensure that Prelay feed is introduced after the birds attain a body weight of 1100 gms. Sodium chloride and Sodium bi-carbonate may be used proportionately to balance sodium and chlorine ions. rd

Calcium may be incorporated in the proportion of 1/3 rd powder form and 2/3 grit form.

If the above given calcium levels are maintained, then there is no need of top dressing of shellgrit or marblegrit.

Feed Consumption and Body Weight Targets of BV-300 (Growing Phase) Type of Feed Weeks

Age Days

Grams of Feed per Bird Body Weight Per Day Cumulative in gms

1

1

0-7

11

77

70

1

2

8-14

16

189

120

1

3

15-21

18

315

170

1

4

22-28

25

490

230

1

5

29-35

35

735

310

1

6

36-42

40

1015

410

1

7

43-49

44

1323

490

1/2

8

50-56

48

1659

580

1/2

9

57-63

49

2002

660

2

10

64-70

50

2352

740

2

11

71-77

51

2709

820

2

12

78-84

54

3087

900

2

13

85-91

56

3479

970

2

14

92-98

58

3885

1030

2

15

99-105

60

4305

1070

3

16

106-112

62

4739

1110

3

17

113-119

63

5180

1160

3/4

18

120-126

66

5642

1200

4

19

127-133

75

6167

1280

4

20

134-140

82

6741

1360

27

The information regarding gains in body weight indicates

Percentage of Pullets within

the growth of a bird. A sample of approximately 100 birds

+10% of Average Flock Weight

Uniformity Rating

will provide adequate information. However, it is recommended that the sample should be minimum 5% of the flock at the ages of 8, 12, 16 and 20 weeks. In cages, the

85 % and Over

Excellent

80-85 %

Very Good

70-75 %

Fair

Less than 70 %

Unsatisfactory

birds should be selected from boxes in different rows to represent the flock. As far as possible weigh the same cage birds every time. The underweight birds indicate excessive crowding, lack of feeder and waterer space, disease conditions, different types of stress and imbalanced or inadequate feed among other reasons. The information on body weights of birds will give the indication about the uniformity of the flock. Flock Uniformity Flock of ready-to-lay pullets should have uniform weights. Uniform flocks attain better peaks in productivity and sustain for a longer period than flocks showing wide variation in body weights. The following chart gives the criteria to decide the range of uniformity among the birds:

28

29

Debeaking

Vaccination

Double Beak Trimming Programme

Ensure that vaccines to be used are sourced from reputed

Debeaking is a standard practice among poultry men. This operation reduces feed wastage and also mortality in birds resulting from pecking and subsequent cannibalism.

manufacturers. The products of such manufacturers are

Debeaking should be done in time and by following proper procedures. It is recommended that the beak trimming be rd done in chicks at the age of 6 to 10 days. 1/3 of the beak should be removed with the least possible stress to the chicks and minimising the bleeding by proper cauterization. Gentle pressure on the bird's throat with the index finger on the neck will retract the tongue of the bird to prevent it from burning. Debeaking results in one of the greatest single stress events in pullet rearing and hence anti-stress medication is advised before, during and after debeaking. Pullets may be debeaked again at the age of 12-14 weeks using methods and equipment suitable for the birds of that age. However, debeaking should never be adapted after the age of 16 weeks. As a preventive measure administer Vitamin K in water one day before and on the day of debeaking.

cooled and secured packing and should be stored under

produced under rigid standards of production and quality control.

Vaccines should be transported in insulated,

conditions specified by the manufacturer. Consult your local

BV-300

Technical Representative or

Veterinary expert, to decide the vaccination schedule for your farm.

It is desirable to undertake serological

monitoring for better designing of vaccine schedule.

Single Beak Trimming Programme The best age for one-time beak trimming is 6 to 10 days of age or as per recommendation of machine manufacturer. 30

31

Lighting Types of Lighting Two types of light sources are available for use in poultry houses. These are - fluorescent and incandescent.

artificial light to the birds. One has to monitor clocks, make adjustments for increasing or decreasing day lengths, power failures, etc.

Lighting Program

Light during Growing Period

The poultry house should be provided with required warmth for chicks and enough natural light to locate feeders and waterers. During the brooding period, artificial lights should necessarily be provided for the initial 48 hours. Subsequently, depending upon climatic conditions and brooding management, the need of artificial lights may be decided in consultation with a local technical person.

In India the day length varies from region to region and also between summer and winter. The total duration of lighting to be provided to the birds should take into consideration the available natural light.

Light Distribution It is important to place bulbs in such a way so as to achieve equal distribution of light of the specific intensity throughout the poultry house. Time Switches Good quality time switches can be installed for poultry houses. This enables the availability of an exact quantity of 32

Light has a direct effect on sexual maturity. The period of light made available to the flock affects the time the first egg is laid. Decreasing day length during growing period increases their growing period or helps in delaying sexual maturity. Light Day (total light in hours) should not be allowed to increase during growing period. In India we have open sided houses. BV-300 needs no special lighting programme during growing period. Therefore, do not give any artificial lights after the 8th week of age. 33

Increasing Natural Day Length during Growing Period Monitor feed consumption and see that increase in the length of day light at sexual maturity coincides with an increase in feed consumption. During the initial period of lay, egg production rises rapidly and there is a rise in body weight too. Each of these changes need additional feed intake. In areas where longer day length coincides with summer, one must take additional care for making feed allotments in cooler parts of the day to induce feed consumption. Light during the Laying Period Sexual maturity is controlled by the lighting program during the rearing period. The length of day i.e. number of hours of light per day and the intensity of light, are both factors that need to be considered. Lighting programs are designed to have a flock lay 5% production at the 19th week of age and attain over 90% production by 25th week of age. The average body weight of a BV-300 pullet at the age of 20 weeks should be 1360 gms. 34

Many farmers use Compact Fluorescent Light (CFL) during laying period. CFLs of 12 watts are economical, as they save on electricity, provide an even distribution of light and whose results are comparable. Natural light should be made use of till the flock achieves the desired body weight and 80% production. Later, increase the artificial light by ½ hour every week till it reaches 15 hours, inclusive of natural light. Things to Remember l

Do not increase the light suddenly.

l

Ensure the length of the day (natural + artificial), intensity and equal distribution of light in poultry house.

l

Never allow rise in day length for more than one hour. Preferably, increase ½ hour per week to reach required period of maximum 15 hours.

l

As a thumb rule, provide 1 watt per 4 sq.feet area or 5 to 10 lux.

l

Keep bulbs clean.

35

Disinfection & Biosecurity Cleaning and disinfection plays a vital role in the

farm premises (in deep pits with formalin spray, caustic

management of poultry, helping to avoid various bacterial,

soda, salt, etc.).

viral, fungal and protozoal diseases. After vacating the shed of all birds, preferably in one

l

rodents and wild-birds. l

operation or in the shortest possible time, the house should

pipeline. Fill the whole watering system with 5% to 10%

until arrival of new flock.

solution of sodium hypochlorite, keep it overnight or at least 3 to 4 hours. Flush the system with plain water to

Cleaning and Disinfection

remove the solution.)

Remove all waterers, feeders, curtains, bamboo basket brooders (hovers). Clean and wash them thoroughly

l

be used for new batch.

Afterwards dip them in a virucidal disinfectant as per the Then sun dry for a day or so. l

Remove all organic material e.g. manure, litter, feathers, dust, etc., preferably after spraying 5% to 10% formalin and collecting the above in closed containers e.g. gunny bags or plastic bags. All organic matter mentioned above should be disposed off, away from

Bamboo basket brooders from all IBD affected sheds should be disposed off by burning and new brooders should

with water jets and then washing soda solution. manufacturer's instructions for time and dilution rate.

Clean all fans, bulbs/tubes, wirenets and water tanks. (For automatic drinking system, remove all water from

be disinfected and kept vacant thereafter for sufficient time

l

Measures should be taken for controlling the entry of

l

Chemical Treatment: Floors should be soaked with

strong solution of caustic soda flakes (NaOH) with pH above 12 for 12 hours to 24 hours. Then drain out water completely. Dose: Caustic soda flakes (NaOH)* 11 to 12 gms per litre of water.100 litres of such solution should be used for 1000 sq.feet. Washing Soda (Na2CO3) 4 to 5 times the above dose i.e. 50 to 60 gms/litre of water or 5 to 6 kg/1000 sq.feet.

36

37

Rewash the flooring by spraying any of the below

l

Fumigation: Refix all washed and disinfected curtains

mentioned disinfectants e.g.

and fumigate as below:

a. Quarternary Ammonium compound or chlorine

Fumigation with Formaldehyde gas is a

common

10 to 20 ppm to be used either in the form of

practice. However check with your local authorities

bleaching powder or sodium hypochlorite

whether it is permissible. Single strength concentration

(containing 20% available chlorine)

is obtained by mixing 40 ml of formalin with 20 gms of

b. Iodine in dilution to provide 1000 ppm

potassium permanganate for a volume of 100 cubic

*Caution: It is necessary to use hand gloves and gum-boots during use of caustic soda treatment. l

l

feet. Double strength is sometimes used in specialized needs. Fumigation is more effective in presence of

In case of ticks, mite and lice infestation, the shed may

humid atmosphere than dry. Hence, spraying the walls

be sprayed with Cythion at the rate of 80 ml to 160 ml

and floors with water before fumigation is necessary.

per 10 litres of water. Here it is very important and

All the cracks, crevices and windows should be sealed

mandatory to follow the safety precautions, as spraying

while the fumigation is in process (normally 40 hours).

of this type of insecticides is hazardous.

Formalin is poured over the potassium permanganate,

Painting: White wash the shed with lime solution with

into the pots beginning from the farthest end of the

1% kerosene and 5% formalin. (Details on page No. 41)

house.

In case of previous batch history with hig h mor tal ity, suitable virucidal disinfectants may be sprayed as per manufacturer's recommendation.

Caution: Fumigation should be done under supervision of competent person.

For effective fumigation it is desirable to have wetness 0

(humidity) inside the house and temperature above 24 C. Note: In case the distance between houses is short, or 38

39

the birds are present in the neighbouring sheds, then

Whitewash

fumigation may be undesirable and hence be avoided.

Given below is the formula, which gives proportion of

Wherever fumigation is not possible it is suggested to

different ingredients to be included in lime.

wet the flooring and walls up to 3 ft height with formaline solution (5%) for a period of at least 6 hours. l

quicklime in 9 litre of water)

At the end, use spray of virucidal disinfectants commercially available in the market. Consult local technical expert/veterinary expert for choosing the disinfectants and follow manufacturer's instructions

l

13.5 litre Cream of lime (prepared by mixing 4.5 kg of 500 ml

Formaline

1 litre

Kerosene

6.5 litre

Water

for the usage.

To the whitewash thus prepared, add following

After cleaning and disinfection, keep the house vacant

ingredients for special effects.

for a period of 15 days. l

It is advisable to undertake spraying of virucidal

450 gms

Alum (to prevent rubbing off of white wash)

disinfectant 48 to 72 hours before actual arrival of

600 ml

Molasses (for better penetration in wood)

chicks.

450 gms

Bar soap dissolved in 4.5 litre of boiling water

Note:

(to give it oil paint like gloss)

a. The litter material such as rice-husk, saw dust, etc. that is to be used in deep litter house need to be fumigated before use.

White washing of house with this mixture will serve the basic purpose.

b. Laboratory monitoring for ensuring proper disinfection. 40

41

Biosecurity l

l

All In All Out

l

Disposal Methods of Dead Birds

The system is strongly recommended for maximum

The immediate burning or burying of dead birds is an

extraction of genetic potential of birds. It is suggested to

important part of a good disease prevention program.

have separate brooding and growing facility away from

Incinerators: A good incinerator is probably the best

laying facility.

means of disposal, especially in an area where there is

Restriction on Men & Material

poor soil drainage or a danger of contaminating the

Sales persons, egg buyers, servicemen and visitors should not be allowed to enter in. Workers' movement from one age group to other should be minimised to the extent possible.

water supply.

Under no circumstances should men move from laying houses to brooding. l

for changing the foot wear before entering the farm.

Foot Baths

Foot baths should be provided at the entry of the farm necessarily and each house wherever possible. This foot bath should contain suitable disinfectant in

Important - when operating an incinerator, be very sure that birds are completely burnt to a white ash. Disposal Pit: A less desirable but acceptable method of

dead bird disposal is through the use of an adequately designed and tightly covered disposal pit. A pit of 6 ft (1.83 m) in diameter and 6 ft deep (1.83 m) is large enough to take care of one 10,000 capacity layer unit. It is necessary to remove all dead birds immediately and they should be disposed off properly.

necessary dilution. Water from foot baths should be changed periodically. l

Foot Wear

Foot wears (preferably rubber slippers) should be used 42

43

Record Keeping Accurate record keeping is essential to monitor the

l

Stocking density

performance and profitability of layers, and to enable

l

Feed samples which should be retained from each load

forecasting, programming and preparing cash flow

delivered and stored in airtight, vermin-proof

projections. It also serves to provide an early warning of

containers

potential problems, and so is invaluable to all round good management. Daily records should monitor

Compare financial returns on a flock to flock basis, using the following records l

Income from sale of eggs and culls

l

Feed consumption

l

Cost of chicks

l

Water consumption

l

Cost of feed

l

Maximum and minimum temperature

l

Cost of labour

l

Mortality & laboratory diagnostic reports

l

Other variable costs

l

Medication

From this information, arrive at a formula for measuring

l

Vaccination

profitability, by determining the return on capital, i.e. the

l

Feed, gas, litter deliveries, etc.

net profit as a percentage of capital invested. To do this

l

Body weight records

calculate the gross profit by taking the total income and deduct all the costs shown above. Then, from gross profit

Record on a flock basis l

Electricity usage

l

Gas/oil usage

deduct all administration, management and overhead expenses to give net profit. Capital should include fixed capital items such as plant and building, as well as work capital.

44

45

Production Standards

46

19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46

100 100 100 99.9 99.9 99.9 99.8 99.8 99.7 99.7 99.6 99.6 99.6 99.5 99.4 99.3 99.2 99.1 99.0 98.9 98.8 98.7 98.6 98.5 98.4 98.3 98.2 98.1

5 15 38 64 83 89 92 94 94 95 96 97 97 97 96 96 96 96 95 95 95 95 94 94 94 93 93 93

0.35 1.05 2.66 4.48 5.80 6.22 6.43 6.57 6.56 6.63 6.69 6.76 6.76 6.76 6.68 6.67 6.67 6.66 6.58 6.58 6.57 6.56 6.49 6.48 6.47 6.40 6.39 6.39

0.35 1.40 4.06 8.54 14.34 20.56 26.99 33.56 40.12 46.75 53.44 60.20 66.96 73.72 80.40 87.07 93.73 100.39 106.98 113.55 120.13 126.69 133.18 139.66 146.13 152.53 158.92 165.31

75 82 90 93 96 102 104 106 108 108 109 111 111 115 115 115 115 115 114 114 114 113 113 113 113 113 113 113

Age in Livability Prod. % Egg/HH/ Cummu. Egg Recommended Weeks Weeks H.H. Daily Feed

47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64 65 66 67 68 69 70 71 72

98.0 97.9 97.8 97.7 97.6 97.5 97.5 97.4 97.3 97.2 97.2 97.1 97.0 96.9 96.9 96.8 96.7 96.6 96.5 96.5 96.4 96.3 96.3 96.2 96.1 96.0

93 93 92 92 91 90 89 89 89 89 89 88 88 88 88 87 87 86 86 86 85 84 84 83 82 81

6.38 6.37 6.30 6.29 6.22 6.14 6.07 6.07 6.06 6.06 6.06 5.98 5.98 5.97 5.97 5.90 5.89 5.82 5.81 5.81 5.74 5.66 5.66 5.59 5.52 5.44 320.00

171.69 178.06 184.36 190.65 196.87 203.01 209.08 215.15 221.21 227.27 233.33 239.31 245.29 251.26 257.22 263.12 269.02 274.84 280.65 286.46 292.20 297.86 303.52 309.11 314.63 320.07

113 113 113 112 112 112 112 112 112 112 112 112 112 112 110 110 110 110 110 110 110 110 110 110 110 110 41.25

Standards for Commercial Layer Flocks

Standards for Commercial Layer Flocks

Age in Livability Prod. % Egg/HH/ Cummu. Egg Recommended Weeks Weeks H.H. Daily Feed

Note: Recommendations and performance shown in this management guide should not be taken as a warranty or guarantee of the performance. Climatic conditions & various other reasons may affect the actual flock performance.

47

Performance Goals The following performance goals are expected to be achieved during the 52 weeks of laying circle: 1. Livability

96%

2. Egg yield

320 eggs cumulative hen housed

3. Feed consumption

41.25 kg/bird during laying

4. Peak production

(above 90%) 25 weeks to 52 weeks of age

ZONAL SALES OFFICES West - Venkateshwara Hatcheries Ltd 1206, B-18, J.M. Road, Pune - 411 005. Ph. : (020) 5531582/5531661 South - I - Venkateshwara Hatcheries Ltd ‘Venkateshwara House’ H. No. 3-5-808 - 808/1, Hyderguda, Hyderabad - 500 029 Ph : (040) 23237254/23237255 Fax : 23233915 South - II - Venkateshwara Hatcheries Ltd 21-C-Wing, 9th Floor, Mittal Towers, M. G. Road, Bangalore - 560 001. Ph. : (080) 5594229/5594230 Fax : (080) 5597522 North - - Venkateshwara Hatcheries Ltd S.C.O. No. 453-54, Sector 35-C, Chandigarh - 160 036. Ph. : (0172) 600273/603501 Fax : 603099 East - - Venkateshwara Hatcheries Ltd Plot No. 160, VIP Colony, Nayapalli, Near Pollution Control Board, Bhubaneshwar - 750 015. Ph. : (0674) 551014/556666 Fax : 553041

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