In the process of raising laying hens, uniformity is a crucial production indicator that reflects the quality of the breeding stock. Chickens that meet standard body weight and exhibit high uniformity not only reduce the number of underweight or overly lean birds, but also minimize feed waste and lower mortality rates. Moreover, they are more likely to reach peak egg production on time with higher yields and longer productivity periods. According to data, increasing uniformity by 3% from a base of 70% can result in an average of four additional eggs per bird. This highlights that improving evenness during the rearing phase is one of the fundamental strategies for successful broiler chicken farming.
Several key factors contribute to poor flock uniformity. First, impure or mixed breeds may have inherent genetic variability, which can only be addressed through selective breeding and purification. Some foreign specialized breeds have high homogeneity, while certain local chicken varieties, such as yellow-feathered chickens, often show significant variation in size and weight within their strains. Second, early dehydration in chicks—often due to improper hatching, delayed access to water, or long-distance transport—can cause a drop in initial body weight. To counter this, drinkers should be provided in greater numbers (150–200% of usual) in the first few hours after arrival, followed by feeding. Third, incorrect brooding temperatures can lead to cold stress, causing chicks to huddle, lose appetite, and experience uneven growth. Fourth, poor ventilation in the brooding area can damage respiratory systems and increase the risk of infections, especially in sensitive chicks. Proper ventilation must be balanced with temperature control. Fifth, low-quality feed that lacks nutritional balance, inconsistent particle size, or poor mixing can lead to selective feeding and health issues, affecting overall uniformity. Sixth, overcrowding causes competition for food and space, leading to stress and disease outbreaks like chronic respiratory issues. Seventh, inconsistent drinker and feeder setups can lead to unequal access to resources, worsening uniformity. Eighth, proper grouping based on weight and development is essential to manage flock uniformity effectively. Finally, diseases—especially respiratory ones—can severely impact evenness, making biosecurity and preventive measures critical.
To improve uniformity, it’s important to maintain a clean environment, provide suitable feed at each growth stage, and implement group management. Grouping should occur when chicks are placed in the house, dividing them into strong, average, and weak categories. Stronger birds can be placed in lower areas with cooler temperatures, while weaker ones benefit from warmer upper zones. Regular weighing and adjustments help ensure all birds grow consistently. During the growing phase, feed should be gradually adjusted based on weight, allowing slower-growing birds to catch up before transitioning to lower-nutrient feeds. Consistent monitoring and timely interventions are essential to achieve optimal uniformity and prepare the flock for peak performance.
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