Chicks of young breeders demand precise temperature control

Conny Maatjens M.Sc.

Broiler birds only have a short life span. Growing conditions must therefore be optimal from the moment of hatch. This is particularly true for chicks of young breeders. Keeping air and floor temperature in the house fully under control, are essential during brooding.

At day of hatch, chicks seem to be anatomically complete. However, next to the development of organs, certain physiological systems require maturation to support further growth and development. Three major systems which are not fully developed at day of hatch are the digestive, immune and thermoregulation systems. Development and activation of the digestive system is influenced by the intake of feed and water. The intake of feed and water stimulates development of the intestinal tract and an efficient use of nutrient uptake. More efficient use of nutrients leads to a better developed immune system. The development of the thermoregulation system takes place during the first four days after hatch. Download the entire article via the button below.