Management of day-old chicks

 Management of day-old chicks.

From arrival to weaning is critical for their growth, health, and productivity. Here is a detailed write-up on the various steps involved in managing day-old chicks:

 

Arrival: When the day-old chicks arrive at the farm, it's essential to provide them with clean, warm, and dry brooder housing. The temperature of the brooder should be between 90-95°F for the first week. Adequate ventilation should be provided while avoiding drafts.

 

Feeding: Day-old chicks require access to water and feed immediately upon arrival. A good quality starter feed with the appropriate protein level (typically 20-22%) should be provided. The chicks should be encouraged to eat by placing the feed near the water source.

 

Watering: Clean water should be available at all times. Chick waterers should be cleaned and sanitized regularly, and the water source should be free from contaminants.

 

Lighting: Provide 24-hour light for the first day, then gradually reduce to 18 hours by the end of the first week. A constant light source will help chicks find food and water more easily.

 

Vaccinations: Day-old chicks should receive appropriate vaccinations according to the recommended schedule. Vaccinations should be administered by a trained professional to ensure proper dosage and timing.

 

Monitoring: Chicks should be monitored regularly for signs of illness, injury, or stress. The brooder temperature, feed, and water should be checked multiple times a day to ensure optimal conditions.

 

Weaning: When the chicks reach 4-6 weeks of age, they are typically weaned from the starter feed onto a grower diet. The temperature in the brooder should be gradually reduced by 5°F per week until it reaches room temperature. The chicks should be gradually transitioned to a larger pen with access to food and water.

 

In conclusion, proper management of day-old chicks is essential for their health and growth. Providing clean housing, adequate feed and water, appropriate lighting, vaccinations, and monitoring are all critical factors to ensure successful brooding. Following the above steps will help ensure the best possible outcome for the day-old chicks from arrival to weaning.

 

 

 

 

Vaccination programs for day-old chicks  

This is critical in preventing and controlling infectious diseases that can cause significant losses in the poultry industry. Here is a brief overview of some common vaccinations for day-old chicks:

 

Marek's Disease Vaccine: 

This is a common vaccination for day-old chicks that protects against Marek's disease, a viral disease that can cause tumors, paralysis, and death. The vaccine is typically administered via injection on the first day of life.

 

Newcastle Disease Vaccine: 

Newcastle disease is a highly contagious viral disease that can cause respiratory and nervous system symptoms in chickens. The vaccine is typically administered via drinking water or injection at 1-2 weeks of age.

 

Infectious Bronchitis Vaccine:

Infectious bronchitis is a viral respiratory disease that can cause significant economic losses in the poultry industry. The vaccine is typically administered via drinking water or spray at 1-2 weeks of age.

 

Avian Influenza Vaccine: 

Avian influenza is a highly contagious viral disease that can cause respiratory symptoms and death in birds. The vaccine is typically administered via injection or spray at 1-2 weeks of age.

 

Coccidiosis Vaccine: 

Coccidiosis is a parasitic disease that affects the intestinal tract of chickens. The vaccine is typically administered via feed or water at 1-2 weeks of age.

 

It's essential to consult with a veterinarian or poultry health specialist to develop a vaccination program tailored to your specific flock's needs. The timing, dosage, and administration method of vaccines will vary depending on the type of vaccine and the age of the chicks. Regular booster shots may also be necessary to ensure continued protection against infectious diseases. Properly administering vaccines according to the recommended schedule is critical in ensuring optimal health and productivity of the flock.

Dr, Samuel Kahoro.

veterinarian