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Typical broiler varieties include crosses of parents from two genetic strains, also from within the same strain. (Example: Ross™/Arbor Acre™ parent cross, or Hubbard/Hubbard™ parent cross). This allows genetic traits from both parents to be displayed in the baby chick, primarily for their ability to convert feed to body mass, meeting the demand for rapid growth in commercial broiler operations.
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Ventilation Prevents Mortality — Why?
Ammonia gas is common in varying degrees within chicken pens. It is a by product of the chick droppings in the bedding, the moisture levels of the bedding, and biological activity by microbes. When the bedding becomes too saturated with waste, then the more moisture present the more ammonia gas is released. Ammonia is very soluble in water, forming a very caustic, corrosive chemical called ammonium hydroxide that attacks eyes and other moist tissues such as lungs and the throat. Proper ventilation carries the gas away before it can do any harm, as it will cause conjunctivitis in the eyes as well as respiratory problems, susceptibility to bacterial infection through the lungs, possibly even death if in high enough concentrations. Where natural ventilation is not enough, ventilation fans can be installed to draw out the air from the pen, creating the desired circulation.
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Brooding Suggestions
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 Anflox - Antibiotic administered at 2 ml per gallon of drinking water for the 1st 3 days of brooding. Can be substituted with Neochlor for smaller volume of chicks.
 Vitalyte Plus - Vitamin mix, add 1 package to 100 gallons of water or ¼ teaspoon to a one gallon bottle. Vitalyte Plus can be mixed with Anflox, i.e. applied in the same drinking water. Use for the 1st 5 days of brooding, then again prior to any change of feed type.
 Vitamin E - Not always necessary, however if Vitamin E deficiency has been noticed in other chicks prior to placement of day old broilers, apply 3 oz (100 ml) of vitamin E liquid to 128 gallons of drinking water. (1 teaspoon to 5 gallons).
Recommended Feeding for Broilers
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| 0-21 days old |
Broiler Starter |
| 22-35 days old |
Broiler Grower 19% |
| 36 days old to slaughter |
Broiler Finisher 17% |
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