Success in the poultry industry largely depends on the management practices adopted on the farms.
A total of 600 poultry farms, 300 from each state, were studied to understand the management practices, focusing on those using the deep litter system, which is the most common in both states.
Effective poultry management is crucial for achieving optimal bird weight and quality at the lowest cost. The study focused on eight key management areas:
- Poultry House Construction
- Rearing Bird Management
- Brooder and Light Management
- Litter Management
- Feeding and Watering
- Disease Management
- Farm Insurance
- Record and Account Keeping
Poultry House Construction
A well-constructed poultry house is vital for bird comfort, disease control, and efficient production. The roofing materials should suit the local climate; for instance, asbestos or metal sheets are recommended in high-rainfall areas, while lighter materials like tiles or thatched roofs can be used in drier regions. However, thatched roofs may require more maintenance and be less durable. Overall, light roofs, metal sheets, and tiles are considered most suitable for poultry houses.
When raising poultry like chickens, ducks, turkeys, and quails for eggs or meat, proper nutrition is essential. Whether for family use or commercial production, good nutrition is crucial for keeping birds healthy and productive.
Importance of Poultry Nutrition
Proper nutrition ensures poultry birds grow well, stay healthy, and produce efficiently. Essential nutrients include 13 vitamins, 14 amino acids, 12 minerals, and fatty acids.
Feed Ingredients
Corn and soybean meal are commonly used in poultry feed due to their high energy content and protein balance. Fish meal and meat meal are also important, providing protein, amino acids, calcium, and phosphorus, which are vital for bird health. Properly balanced feed is key to successful poultry farming.