A FEW TIPS OF MANAGING BROILER FARMING DURING HEAT AND HUMID CONDITIONS - M. K. Vyas

Broiler farming is a dynamic business, but one of its biggest challenges is managing birds during hot and humid conditions. While broilers are bred for rapid growth, their ability to regulate body temperature is limited, making them vulnerable to heat stress.
Signs of Heat Stress:
1. Increased panting and open-mouth breathing.
2. Increased water intake and reduced feed intake.
3. Lethargy and reduced activity levels.
4. Restlessness and seeking shade.
Causes of Heat Stress:
1. Poultry are particularly vulnerable to heat stress during periods of high temperatures, especially when combined with high humidity and low airflow.
2. Broilers lack sweat glands, making it difficult for them to cool down naturally. Instead, they rely on panting, which increases their energy expenditure and leads to dehydration.
3. The situation worsens when humidity is high, as it reduces the efficiency of evaporative cooling. This creates a dangerous cycle where birds experience distress, reduced feed intake, and lower weight gain.
4. When temperatures rise above the comfort zone broilers eat less to minimize metabolic heat production. This slows down weight gain and results in poor feed conversion efficiency.
5. Prolonged dehydration can lead to organ failure and increased mortality.
6. Under extreme heat, some birds die suddenly due to heatstroke
Summer Management.
1. Use glucose and amino acid supplements to boost energy levels and immune function.
2. Offer early morning and late evening feedings to encourage intake during cooler hours.
3. Include antioxidants like Vitamin E and selenium to repair cell damage from heat stress.
4. Observe birds for post-stress infections and administer necessary medications.
5. Implement probiotic supplementation to restore gut health.
Managing heat and humidity in broiler farming is a battle against nature, but it’s a winnable one. By implementing preventive measures and having a heat-stress response plan, farmers can minimize production losses, improve bird welfare, and ensure consistent growth performance.
M. K. Vyas

A FEW TIPS OF MANAGING BROILER FARMING DURING HEAT AND HUMID CONDITIONS - M. K. Vyas

How to meet the needs of choline in an efficient and cost-effective way

Effect of Gano-met® on egg performance in laying hens

Jonathan Cade comments on his new role as Chairman of the U.S. Poultry & Egg Association

How to meet the needs of choline in an efficient and cost-effective way