In large-scale chicken farming, the decision to sort and improve flock uniformity significantly impacts the overall performance of the flock throughout the production cycle. Proper management during early stages is crucial for achieving high productivity and consistent growth.
On the day the chicks arrive (day one), it's essential to conduct the first selection and adjustment. Weak or underdeveloped chicks should be vaccinated against Newcastle disease and infectious bronchitis. These chicks should then be placed in a warm area, close to the heat source, while the healthier ones remain in their original group. A second selection takes place on day four. At this stage, any weak, thin, or struggling chicks are removed and placed in a well-ventilated, warmer environment, while the stronger ones stay in their original cage.
As the chickens grow, the density within the cages increases, making timely grouping necessary. By around 42 days of age, the flock is typically divided into three groups based on weight: large, medium, and small. Alternatively, they can be categorized as above standard, meeting standard, or below standard. Larger, heavier chickens are placed on lower tiers where temperatures are slightly cooler, while smaller or lighter ones are moved to upper tiers with higher warmth. Feed amounts are adjusted accordingly to help each group reach the desired weight.
Throughout the breeding period, some weaker individuals may still appear in the flock. Regular observation and prompt removal of these birds are essential to ensure they reach the target weight as quickly as possible. This helps maintain a balanced and productive flock.
Flock adjustment also involves careful weighing. Two key principles should be followed: regular weighing, ideally once a week, and random sampling—typically 5% of the total flock. Weighing results are compared to the expected standard weight to adjust feed quantities and feeding schedules, ensuring the average weight remains within an optimal range.
After grouping, it's important to inspect the chickens and re-sort them based on size to apply appropriate management practices. The ultimate goal of flock adjustment is to achieve a uniformity level of at least 80%, which ensures the flock performs at its best, leading to high yields and stable production.
Failure to adjust the flock in time can result in weaker chickens being left behind, stunted growth, and a loss of economic value. Therefore, timely and thoughtful management is essential for long-term success in poultry farming.
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