bv 300 layer management guide
TRANSCRIPT
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
Contents
Commercial LayerManagement Guide
The Businessman's BirdBV-300
Introduction
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.
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.
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
BV-300 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
The houses may be environmentally controlled houses or
open sided houses. In India, open sided houses find favour
and have proven successful.
Lengthwise, poultry houses should be in an east-west
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.
Types of Housing
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.
l The ventilation is not dependent on electricity.
Brooding and growing of birds are carried out either in
deep litter or in cages. However, laying birds are
generally housed in cages.
2
Deep Litter System
Equipment
For brooding every 300 pullet chicks, the following items
of equipments are necessary:
l One brooder made of bamboo or tin, 6 ft in diameter
and a brooder guard made of tin or cardboard. Tin may
be preferred as it is easy to clean and disinfect.
(20 ft long and 18" high cardboard sheet or tin made in
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 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
development of all the birds.
The requirement of feeder and water space for deep litter:
Weeks Floor Feeder Water(sq.feet) (inches) (chicks/nipple)
0-4 0.5 1" 16
5-8 1.0 1" 8
9-14 1.2 2" 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.
4
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.
Chicks should be kept warm but not hot.
Chicks should easily reach feed and water.
Cages should have enough light so that chicks can
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".
l
l
l
5
Specifications for Brooder Cage
Sr. Particulars Commercial ChicksNo. (Upto 7th Week)
1. System 2 Tier (Reversible)
2. No. of birds/box 15
3. Bottom/Upper Tier 30" x 15" x 15"
4. Floor space/bird 30 sq.inches
5. Feed Trough 22 G Aluminium Feeders
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.
6
Gas Brooding
Use of LPG operated Gas Brooders gives much more
uniform heat as compared to conventional types of
brooding practices like Electric Lamps, Coal or Wood
Heaters. The radiant Gas Brooder creates micro-climate
for the chicks so that they can choose their most
comfortable place and warmth at any time. This results in
proper growth and weight gain which is more uniform.
LPG Gas Brooding can be done either by Central Control
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
s y s t e m m u s t h a v e a
temperature control device.
The advantage of temperature
control is in energy saving and
to meet the precise heat
requirement of the birds which
changes with their age.
10-25cm
90-130 cm
3°
7
8
Infra Red Radiant Brooder can be placed 90 to 130 cm
above the ground level depending upon the heat
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
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 0temperature approximately by 3 C per week until attaining
0a temperature of 25 C. The temperature can be sensed by a
sensor connected to the individual Gas Brooders or to the
Central Control System.
Grower Cages
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".
Specifications for Grower Cages
Sr. Particulars Commercial GrowerNo. (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.
9
10
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.
Specifications For Layer Cages
Sr. Particulars Commercial GrowerNo. (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.
11
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 thehouse.
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 spotdead 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.
13
the half way mark to an excellent BV-300 performance.
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.
Ensure that the tyre dip at the entrance of the farm is filled
with the right disinfectant in correct dilution, so that the
wheels of all incoming delivery vans containing chicks
will be disinfected at the entrance. The water in the tyre dip
should be changed periodically.
Water
Water to be given to the birds should be fresh, clean and
potable. (The table on next page gives standards for water
quality.)
12
st 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.
A rearing program should satisfy the following goals:
l At least 80% of the birds should be in the range of the
standard body weight + 10%. The flock should be
uniform. Birds should not be fatty or underweight.
l Birds should be completely healthy, free from internal
and external parasites, and immune to all endemic viral
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
Rearing Program
14
Drinking Water Standards
Particulars Maximum Permissible Limit
No. of Bacteria/ml 10-50
No. of Coliforms/ml 00Hydrometric Level -30
Organic Substances 1 mg/litre
Nitrates 0-15 mg/litre
Ammonia 0 mg/litre
Cloudiness/Turbidity 5 U
Iron 0.3 mg/litre
Manganese 0.1 mg/litre
Copper 1.0 mg/litre
Zinc 5 mg/litre
Calcium 75 mg/litre
Magnesium 50 mg/litre
Sulphates 200 mg/litre
Chlorides 200 mg/litre
pH 6.8-7.5
While collecting water samples for bacterial/
microbiological testing, care should be taken regarding the
following:
l Water samples should be collected in sterile bottles.
Untreated water should be collected directly from the
source of water supply.
l Water treated with some water sanitizer should be
collected from storage tanks, water pipelines and
waterers.
Water Consumption
Water consumption of poultry birds varies substantially,
depending upon the ambient temperature, humidity,
temperature of water and age of birds. Please do not
restrict quantity of drinking water to be offered to the birds.
The following table gives the general guidelines on the
quantity of water consumed by 100 birds of different
age groups, daily at an ambient temperature of0 0 28 C (82 F):
15
Age of Birds Water/100 Birds/Day(weeks) (litres)
1 & 2 4.80
3 5.40
4 7.50
5 10.50
6 12.00
7 13.20
8 14.40
9 14.70
10 15.00
11 15.30
12 16.20
13 16.80
14 17.40
15 18.00
16 18.60
17 18.90
18 19.80
19 22.50
20 24.60
Note: Water consumption would differ depending upon the temperature andagro-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 agro-
climatic 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.
Feeding
17
Feed used in all phases of the life cycle of poultry birds must meet the following criteria:
l Nutrients should be supplied in proper proportions and
in a form which is bio-available to the birds.
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, liver-
meal, blood-meal and hydrolysed feather-meal are used,
care should be taken to ensure that they are absolutely
free from all types of contaminants.
l 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
18
nutritional value of soybean. The level of roasting of
soybean can be judged by feed analytical laboratories.
l Calcium should be added to the feed in form of oyster-
shell 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
and the accurate valuation of each feed ingredient
before they are added together.
19
Feeding Recommendations for BV-300
Chick Mash
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
recommended to use pelleted/crumbled chick feed.
Grower Mash
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
Layer Feed
Layer feed offered to the laying birds should be formulated
according to the age of the birds and egg production.
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.
Phase feeding saves money.
21
Suggested Nutritional Requirements Chicks & Growers
Chick Grower
Mash Mash(upto - 580 gms) (580 -1100 gms)
Nutrients
Metabolizable Energy kcal/kg 2750 2500
Crude Protein % (min.) 20.5 17
Methionine % (min.) 0.45 0.35
Lysine % (min.) 1.04 0.80
Calcium % (min.) 1.00 1.00
Available Phosphorous % (min.) 0.45 0.40
Sodium % (max.) 0.18 - 0.20 0.18 - 0.20
Chloride % (max.) 0.18 - 0.20 0.18 - 0.20
Linoleic Acid % (min.) 1.20 1.00
Minerals
Manganese mg/kg (added) 80 80
Zinc mg/kg (added) 80 80
Iron mg/kg (added) 60 60
Copper mg/kg (added) 15 15
Iodine mg/kg (added) 1 1
Selenium mg/kg (added) 0.3 0.3
22
Chick Grower Mash Mash
(upto-580 gms) (580-1100 gms)
Vitamins
Vitamin A I.U./kg (added) 12500 12500
Vitamin D3 I.U./kg (added) 2500 2500
Vitamin K3 (MSB) mg/kg (added) 4 4
Vitamin E I.U./kg (added) 40 40
Vitamin B-12 mg/kg (added) 0.015 0.015
Riboflavin mg/kg (added) 8 8
Niacin mg/kg (added) 50 50
Pantothenic Acid mg/kg (added) 20 20
Folic Acid mg/kg (added) 2 2
Thiamin mg/kg (added) 3 3
Pyridoxine mg/kg (added) 4.5 4.5
Biotin mg/kg (added) 0.1 0.1
Vitamin C mg/kg (added) 50 50
Choline mg/kg (added) 600 250Note: 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 summerseason.
23
24
Prelay Feed Phase I Phase II Phase III
**(Age in Weeks) (16-18) (19-40) (41-60) (61 to
Liquidation)
Vitamins
Vitamin A I.U./kg (added) 12500 12500 12500 12500
Vitamin D3 I.U./kg (added) 2500 2500 2500 2500
Vitamin K3 (MSB) mg/kg (added) 4 4 4 4
Vitamin E I.U./kg (added) 40 40 40 40
Vitamin B-12 mg/kg (added) 0.015 0.015 0.015 0.015
Riboflavin mg/kg (added) 8 8 8 8
Niacin mg/kg (added) 30 30 30 30
Pantothenic Acid mg/kg (added) 10 10 10 10
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
Refer Standard Chart for feed consumption on page numbers 30 & 31.
25
Suggested Nutritional Requirements Prelay & Laying Period
Prelay Feed Phase I Phase II Phase III**
(Age in Weeks) (16-18) (19-40) (41-60) (61 toLiquidation)
Nutrients
Metabolizable Energy kcal/kg 2500 2500 2450 2450
Crude Protein % (min.) l 7 17.5 16 15.5
Methionine % (min.) 0.40 0.40 0.30 0.30
Lysine % (min.) 0.72 0.80 0.70 0.70
Calcium % (min.) 2.5 3.60 4.00 4.00
Available Phosphorous % (min.) 0.4 0.35 0.30 0.30
Sodium % (max.) 0.18-0.20 0.18-0.20 0.18-0.20 0.18-0.20
Chloride % (max.) 0.18-0.20 0.18-0.20 0.18-0.20 0.18-0.20
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
Selenium mg/kg (added) 0.3 0.3 0.3 0.3
Feed Consumption and Body Weight Targets of BV-300 (Growing Phase)
Type of Feed Age Grams of Feed per Bird Body Weight
Weeks Days 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
Note:
l **Care should be taken to ensure that Prelay feed is introduced after the birds attain a body weight of1100 gms.
l. Sodium chloride and Sodium bi-carbonate may be used proportionately to balance sodium and chlorine ions.
rdl Calcium may be incorporated in the proportion of 1/3
rdpowder form and 2/3 grit form.
l. If the above given calcium levels are maintained, then there is no need of top dressing of shellgrit or marblegrit.
26
The information regarding gains in body weight indicates
the growth of a bird. A sample of approximately 100 birds
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
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
Percentage of Pullets within Uniformity Rating
+10% of Average Flock Weight
85 % and Over Excellent
80-85 % Very Good
70-75 % Fair
Less than 70 % Unsatisfactory
29
Double Beak Trimming Programme
Debeaking is a standard practice among poultry men. This
operation reduces feed wastage and also mortality in birds
resulting from pecking and subsequent cannibalism.
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.
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.
Debeaking
30
Ensure that vaccines to be used are sourced from reputed
manufacturers. The products of such manufacturers are
produced under rigid standards of production and quality
control. Vaccines should be transported in insulated,
cooled and secured packing and should be stored under
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.
Vaccination
31
Types of Lighting
Two types of light sources are available for use in poultry
houses. These are - fluorescent and incandescent.
Lighting Program
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.
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
Lighting
32
artificial light to the birds. One has to monitor clocks,
make adjustments for increasing or decreasing day
lengths, power failures, etc.
Light during Growing Period
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 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
Do not increase the light suddenly.
Ensure the length of the day (natural + artificial), intensity and equal distribution of light in poultry house.
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.
As a thumb rule, provide 1 watt per 4 sq.feet areaor 5 to 10 lux.
Keep bulbs clean.
l
l
l
l
l
35
Cleaning and disinfection plays a vital role in the
management of poultry, helping to avoid various bacterial,
viral, fungal and protozoal diseases.
After vacating the shed of all birds, preferably in one
operation or in the shortest possible time, the house should
be disinfected and kept vacant thereafter for sufficient time
until arrival of new flock.
Cleaning and Disinfection
l Remove all waterers, feeders, curtains, bamboo basket
brooders (hovers). Clean and wash them thoroughly
with water jets and then washing soda solution.
Afterwards dip them in a virucidal disinfectant as per the
manufacturer's instructions for time and dilution rate.
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
Disinfection & Biosecurity
36
farm premises (in deep pits with formalin spray, caustic
soda, salt, etc.).
l Measures should be taken for controlling the entry of
rodents and wild-birds.
l Clean all fans, bulbs/tubes, wirenets and water tanks.
(For automatic drinking system, remove all water from
pipeline. Fill the whole watering system with 5% to 10%
solution of sodium hypochlorite, keep it overnight or at
least 3 to 4 hours. Flush the system with plain water to
remove the solution.)
l Bamboo basket brooders from all IBD affected sheds
should be disposed off by burning and new brooders should
be used for new batch.
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.
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Rewash the flooring by spraying any of the below
mentioned disinfectants e.g.
a. Quarternary Ammonium compound or chlorine
10 to 20 ppm to be used either in the form of
bleaching powder or sodium hypochlorite
(containing 20% available chlorine)
b. Iodine in dilution to provide 1000 ppm
*Caution: It is necessary to use hand gloves andgum-boots during use of caustic soda treatment.
In case of ticks, mite and lice infestation, the shed may
be sprayed with Cythion at the rate of 80 ml to 160 ml
per 10 litres of water. Here it is very important and
mandatory to follow the safety precautions, as spraying
of this type of insecticides is hazardous.
Painting: White wash the shed with lime solution with
1% kerosene and 5% formalin. (Details on page No. 41)
In case of previous batch history with high mor tal ity,
suitable virucidal disinfectants may be sprayed as per
manufacturer's recommendation.
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l Fumigation: Refix all washed and disinfected curtains
and fumigate as below:
Fumigation with Formaldehyde gas is a common
practice. However check with your local authorities
whether it is permissible. Single strength concentration
is obtained by mixing 40 ml of formalin with 20 gms of
potassium permanganate for a volume of 100 cubic
feet. Double strength is sometimes used in specialized
needs. Fumigation is more effective in presence of
humid atmosphere than dry. Hence, spraying the walls
and floors with water before fumigation is necessary.
All the cracks, crevices and windows should be sealed
while the fumigation is in process (normally 40 hours).
Formalin is poured over the potassium permanganate,
into the pots beginning from the farthest end of the
house.
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
39
the birds are present in the neighbouring sheds, then
fumigation may be undesirable and hence be avoided.
Wherever fumigation is not possible it is suggested to
wet the flooring and walls up to 3 ft height with
formaline solution (5%) for a period of at least 6 hours.
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
for the usage.
After cleaning and disinfection, keep the house vacant
for a period of 15 days.
It is advisable to undertake spraying of virucidal
disinfectant 48 to 72 hours before actual arrival of
chicks.
Note:
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.
b. Laboratory monitoring for ensuring proper
disinfection.
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Whitewash
Given below is the formula, which gives proportion of
different ingredients to be included in lime.
13.5 litre Cream of lime (prepared by mixing 4.5 kg of
quicklime in 9 litre of water)
500 ml Formaline
1 litre Kerosene
6.5 litre Water
To the whitewash thus prepared, add following
ingredients for special effects.
450 gms Alum (to prevent rubbing off of white wash)
600 ml Molasses (for better penetration in wood)
450 gms Bar soap dissolved in 4.5 litre of boiling water
(to give it oil paint like gloss)
White washing of house with this mixture will serve the
basic purpose.
41
Biosecurity
All In All Out
The system is strongly recommended for maximum
extraction of genetic potential of birds. It is suggested to
have separate brooding and growing facility away from
laying facility.
Restriction on Men & Material
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.
Under no circumstances should men move from laying houses
to brooding.
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
necessary dilution. Water from foot baths should be
changed periodically.
Foot Wear
Foot wears (preferably rubber slippers) should be used
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for changing the foot wear before entering the farm.
Disposal Methods of Dead Birds
The immediate burning or burying of dead birds is an
important part of a good disease prevention program.
Incinerators: A good incinerator is probably the best
means of disposal, especially in an area where there is
poor soil drainage or a danger of contaminating the
water supply.
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.
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Record Keeping
Accurate record keeping is essential to monitor the
performance and profitability of layers, and to enable
forecasting, programming and preparing cash flow
projections. It also serves to provide an early warning of
potential problems, and so is invaluable to all round good
management.
Daily records should monitor
Feed consumption
Water consumption
Maximum and minimum temperature
Mortality & laboratory diagnostic reports
Medication
Vaccination
Feed, gas, litter deliveries, etc.
Body weight records
Record on a flock basis
Electricity usage
Gas/oil usage
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Stocking density
Feed samples which should be retained from each load
delivered and stored in airtight, vermin-proof
containers
Compare financial returns on a flock to flock
basis, using the following records
Income from sale of eggs and culls
Cost of chicks
Cost of feed
Cost of labour
Other variable costs
From this information, arrive at a formula for measuring
profitability, by determining the return on capital, i.e. the
net profit as a percentage of capital invested. To do this
calculate the gross profit by taking the total income and
deduct all the costs shown above. Then, from gross profit
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.
45
Production Standards
Age in Livability Prod. % Egg/HH/ Cummu. Egg Recommended Weeks Weeks H.H. Daily Feed
19 100 5 0.35 0.35 75
20 100 15 1.05 1.40 82
21 100 38 2.66 4.06 90
22 99.9 64 4.48 8.54 93
23 99.9 83 5.80 14.34 96
24 99.9 89 6.22 20.56 102
25 99.8 92 6.43 26.99 104
26 99.8 94 6.57 33.56 106
27 99.7 94 6.56 40.12 108
28 99.7 95 6.63 46.75 108
29 99.6 96 6.69 53.44 109
30 99.6 97 6.76 60.20 111
31 99.6 97 6.76 66.96 111
32 99.5 97 6.76 73.72 115
33 99.4 96 6.68 80.40 115
34 99.3 96 6.67 87.07 115
35 99.2 96 6.67 93.73 115
36 99.1 96 6.66 100.39 115
37 99.0 95 6.58 106.98 114
38 98.9 95 6.58 113.55 114
39 98.8 95 6.57 120.13 114
40 98.7 95 6.56 126.69 113
41 98.6 94 6.49 133.18 113
42 98.5 94 6.48 139.66 113
43 98.4 94 6.47 146.13 113
44 98.3 93 6.40 152.53 113
45 98.2 93 6.39 158.92 113
46 98.1 93 6.39 165.31 113
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Sta
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r C
om
mercia
l L
ay
er F
lock
s
Age in Livability Prod. % Egg/HH/ Cummu. Egg Recommended Weeks Weeks H.H. Daily Feed
47 98.0 93 6.38 171.69 113
48 97.9 93 6.37 178.06 113
49 97.8 92 6.30 184.36 113
50 97.7 92 6.29 190.65 112
51 97.6 91 6.22 196.87 112
52 97.5 90 6.14 203.01 112
53 97.5 89 6.07 209.08 112
54 97.4 89 6.07 215.15 112
55 97.3 89 6.06 221.21 112
56 97.2 89 6.06 227.27 112
57 97.2 89 6.06 233.33 112
58 97.1 88 5.98 239.31 112
59 97.0 88 5.98 245.29 112
60 96.9 88 5.97 251.26 112
61 96.9 88 5.97 257.22 110
62 96.8 87 5.90 263.12 110
63 96.7 87 5.89 269.02 110
64 96.6 86 5.82 274.84 110
65 96.5 86 5.81 280.65 110
66 96.5 86 5.81 286.46 110
67 96.4 85 5.74 292.20 110
68 96.3 84 5.66 297.86 110
69 96.3 84 5.66 303.52 110
70 96.2 83 5.59 309.11 110
71 96.1 82 5.52 314.63 110
72 96.0 81 5.44 320.07 110
320.00 41.25
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
Sta
nd
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s for C
om
mercia
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lock
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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 to52 weeks of age
48 49
ZONAL SALESOFFICES
West - Venkateshwara Hatcheries Ltd1206, 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 029Ph : (040) 23237254/23237255Fax : 23233915
South - II - Venkateshwara Hatcheries Ltd21-C-Wing, 9th Floor,Mittal Towers, M. G. Road,Bangalore - 560 001.Ph. : (080) 5594229/5594230Fax : (080) 5597522
North - - Venkateshwara Hatcheries LtdS.C.O. No. 453-54, Sector 35-C,Chandigarh - 160 036.Ph. : (0172) 600273/603501Fax : 603099
East - - Venkateshwara Hatcheries LtdPlot No. 160, VIP Colony, Nayapalli,Near Pollution Control Board,Bhubaneshwar - 750 015.Ph. : (0674) 551014/556666Fax : 553041