Chicks have unique physiological characteristics that require special attention during the brooding period. First, they grow and develop rapidly. From birth to 42 days of age, their body weight can increase by approximately 11 times, indicating a very active metabolism. This rapid growth means that the diet must be rich in nutrients and carefully formulated to support their development.
Second, their ability to regulate body temperature is weak. Chicks are born with small, fine feathers that do not provide adequate insulation. As a result, they are highly sensitive to environmental temperature changes. During the early stages, it's essential to maintain a warm and stable environment. As they grow, their feathers develop, and their thermoregulation improves gradually.
Third, their digestive system is not fully developed. Although they have a high metabolic rate, their digestive organs are small, and they cannot store large amounts of food. This makes it important to feed them easily digestible and nutrient-dense feed to meet their energy needs without overloading their system.
Fourth, their immune system is underdeveloped. Chicks are more vulnerable to diseases due to their weak resistance. Therefore, maintaining clean and hygienic conditions is crucial. Farmers should implement strict biosecurity measures and ensure proper vaccination schedules to prevent disease outbreaks.
Fifth, chicks are naturally timid and social. They react easily to sudden noises or movements, which can cause stress. It’s important to keep their environment calm and quiet, limiting unnecessary disturbances. Visitors should avoid entering the brooding area to reduce stress on the young birds.
Sixth, their feather growth occurs in several stages. Chicks replace their feathers four times at ages 4–5, 7–8, 12–13, and 18–20 weeks. Each stage requires increased protein intake to support healthy feather development.
Before brooding begins, several preparations must be made. The first step is choosing an appropriate brooding method. Ground brooding is suitable for small-scale operations but requires frequent cleaning to prevent disease. Online brooding offers better hygiene and easier management, while cage brooding is currently considered the most efficient, reducing disease incidence and improving overall survival rates.
Next, thorough cleaning and disinfection are essential. One week before bringing in the chicks, all equipment, cages, and feeding tools should be sterilized using formalin fumigation. Waterers and feeders should be cleaned with disinfectants like 100 toxin-killing or 120 solutions. Two days before brooding, the temperature inside the house should be raised to around 35°C, with humidity maintained at about 70% to create a comfortable environment.
Finally, a detailed brooding plan should be created. This includes setting technical and economic goals, planning feed and material supplies, and outlining disease prevention strategies. A well-structured plan ensures smooth and successful brooding, leading to healthier and stronger laying hens in the future.
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