Hybro PN+ broiler

Hybro PN+ broilers

Introduction .................................................................................................................................................... 2
Disclaimer ...................................................................................................................................................... 2
Biosecurity...................................................................................................................................................... 3
1.1. General resistance of the flock............................................................................................................ 3
1.2. Vaccination strategy ........................................................................................................................... 3
1.3. Bio-security program .......................................................................................................................... 3
Housing and equipment.................................................................................................................................. 6
2.1. House design....................................................................................................................................... 6
2.1.1. Temperate or mild climate .......................................................................................................... 6
2.1.2. Continental climate ..................................................................................................................... 6
2.1.3. Hot and dry climate..................................................................................................................... 6
2.1.4. Hot and humid climate................................................................................................................ 6
2.2. Lighting .............................................................................................................................................. 7
2.3. Ventilation .......................................................................................................................................... 7
2.3.1. Natural ventilation ...................................................................................................................... 7
2.3.2. Forced ventilation....................................................................................................................... 8
2.4. Heating and cooling............................................................................................................................ 8
2.5. Watering systems................................................................................................................................ 8
2.6. Feeding system ................................................................................................................................... 8
2.6.1. Silos............................................................................................................................................. 9
2.6.2. Feeders........................................................................................................................................ 9
Flock management........................................................................................................................................ 10
3.1. Chick quality................................................................................................................................ 10
3.2. Prior to arrival of the day-old chicks ................................................................................................ 10
3.3. Chick arrival ..................................................................................................................................... 10
3.4. Chicks from young breeder flocks.................................................................................................... 11
3.5. Stocking density................................................................................................................................ 11
3.6. Water management ........................................................................................................................... 11
3.7. Feed management ............................................................................................................................. 11
3.8. Temperature management................................................................................................................. 11
3.9. Ventilation management ................................................................................................................... 13
3.10. Light management .......................................................................................................................... 13
3.11. Hot weather management ............................................................................................................... 13
3.11.1. Climate control ....................................................................................................................... 13
3.11.2. Heat stress prevention............................................................................................................. 13
3.11.3. Heat stress management ......................................................................................................... 14
3.11.4. Heat stress feed composition................................................................................................... 14
3.12. Modifying growth curves ................................................................................................................ 14
3.13. Preslaughter bird handling .............................................................................................................. 16
Nutrition ....................................................................................................................................................... 17
Nutrient recommendations for Hybro PN+ broilers………………………………………………………...18

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 Hybro PN+ broiler

Introduction
This management guide will help you to get the best out of your Hybro PN+ broilers. It is meant as a quick
reference guide, giving you the most important and crucial information on the techniques and tools to
obtain optimum results. It also will provide standards for the results to be expected. For a wider view with
more detailed information, please refer to the large number of technical leaflets published by Hybro on
various topics. For additional information and questions, you can contact the local Hybro representative or
the Hybro head office.

Disclaimer
The information in this booklet is based on scientific literature, practical experience and field results.
Although every attempt has been made to make the information in this booklet as relevant and accurate as
possible, Hybro BV accepts no liability for the consequences of using the information provided in this
booklet. The data provided should be regarded as performance objectives, rather than specifications of
standards.

Hybro B.V.
P.O. Box 30
5830 AA Boxmeer
The Netherlands
Tel. +31 485 589 922
Fax +31 485 575 205
e-mail: info.hybro@hendrix-genetics.com
www.hybro.com

Copyright Hybro B.V.

Ed. 01.2008
42.058

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Biosecurity
In order to obtain maximum performance it is essential to have a minimal level of disease. Most diseases
are the result of a combination of management factors and infectious agents like bacteria, viruses or
parasites.
Disease prevention is based upon providing the birds with good overall immunity by good management,
specific immunity by vaccination and preventing exposure to infections. Therefore we need to focus on the
following three factors:

• General resistance of the flock

• Vaccination strategy
• Bio-security programs

1.1. General resistance of the flock

Healthy birds are able by natural barriers, like the skin, mucous membranes and the intestinal wall to
defend themselves against the most prevalent diseases. Several environmental factors such as wet litter or
draughts can interfere with these natural barriers. Therefore a healthy environment is crucial.

Important factors are:

• A good start
In the first week of life the active immune system of the young chicken develops. Optimal
circumstances, like easily available feed, clean water and a comfortable environmental temperature
promote growth in the first week. The body weight at 7 days of age is, in general, a good indicator of
general health. We advise a 7 days body weight above 150 grams.
• Quality of feed
Feed quality is an important factor in the first week’s growth and later on in several digestive disorders
like necrotic enteritis. As antibiotic growth promoters are withdrawn in several parts of the world, feed
composition becomes more important.
• Quality of water
1. Bacterial load
2. Chemical composition
• Dry litter
• Climate
• Minimal stress
Stress suppresses the immune system. Therefore minimize handling, vaccinations, injections and
transport.

Due to regulations worldwide to restrict the use of chemical agents in poultry production to control
infection in poultry, management becomes more and more important to keep the birds healthy.

1.2. Vaccination strategy

Beside general resistance against diseases, the so-called naïve immunity, specific immunity against specific
diseases can be induced by vaccination.
Any vaccination strategy will depend upon local circumstances such as:

• Disease prevalence
• Vaccination program of parent stock
• Bio-security system
• Labour costs

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For these reasons we cannot suggest a general vaccination program. Keep in mind that every vaccination,
especially injections, interferes with broiler performance. Oil-emulsion vaccinations at early age should
therefore be avoided, unless these vaccinations need to be done due to local circumstances.
Any vaccination program should be checked for its effectiveness for which several serological tests are
available.
Vaccines should always be used according manufacturer’s instructions and safety regulations.

1.3. Bio-security program

To minimize the exposure to pathogens, contact of the birds with other poultry, slaughterhouses, and
poultry waste should be avoided.
• Apply the all in, all out principle at farm level to avoid contact between young and older birds. This
will prevent spread of diseases from older birds to young chickens.
• The site of the farm should be isolated from other poultry farms and slaughterhouses. Between farms
there should be minimal 2 km in order to minimize the risk of spread of diseases by air and rodents.
Also indirect contact via personnel, feed trucks and equipment between farms should be minimized
• Access to the farm should be controlled. Make sure the farm is properly fenced. Access of people,
equipment and other materials should be limited as much as possible. At entering the site, showering
and the changing of clothes and footwear are recommended. Equipment should be cleaned and
disinfected before entering a farm.
• Control of vermin is important to prevent the spread of diseases from the previous flock to the newly
placed chickens. Vermin can spread numeral bacterial diseases like Salmonella and Pasteurella.
Vegetation and all material around the houses are ideal hiding places for rodents. The area around the
houses and the farm should therefore be paved and free from obstacles to keep rodents away. The
control can be divided into two parts:
- A continuous eradication program for rodents
- An eradication program for insects and beetles when the house is empty,
Under all circumstances poisons should be used following manufacturers’ instructions and safety
regulations
• Cleaning and disinfection. A thorough cleaning and disinfection of farm and equipment every cycle is
necessary to reduce the risk of infection between flocks. Good cleaning procedures are the basis for
adequate disinfection. A good procedure is:
- Directly after removal of the birds spray all surfaces with an approved and effective insecticide, to
eliminate insects before they can migrate to woodwork or insulation materials.
- Switch off all electrical equipment, and spray ceiling, walls and litter to dampen down dust.
- Remove all equipment for cleaning outside the house.
- Remove all dust and debris from fan shafts, beams, water pipes etc. onto the litter.
- Remove all litter from the house and transport it outside the premises to a distance where it can be
used safely.
- The surfaces and equipment in the house should be soaked with water and an appropriate cleaning
detergent. Let the house soak for several hours.
- Water lines should be drained and filled with a disinfectant. The disinfectant should be removed
after 24 hours.
- Cleaning can start now and is best done with a lot of water and detergent. Start at the top and work
downwards.
- Water tanks, pipes, covers etc should be cleaned and if possible filled with a disinfectant. The
disinfectant should be removed with clean water after 24 hours.
- The feeding system has to be emptied and cleaned with water and detergent if possible. Feed bins
can be disinfected by means of fumigation.
- The outside of the house has to be cleaned as well, especially the gutters, air in- and outlet and the
external concrete area.
- When cleaning and washing is properly done, repairs can be carried out.
- The first disinfection can take place preferably with a disinfectant dissolved in water.
- A hygiene control based on bacterial counts has to be carried out. If the hygiene score is
insufficient wet disinfection must be repeated.

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- Litter and equipment can be brought into the house and a second disinfection based on fumigation
can take place.
- Insecticides, cleaning detergents and disinfectants should be used according to the manufacturers’
instructions and safety regulations.

Key points:
• Create optimal circumstances for the development of a good natural immune system.
• Apply a vaccination program based upon local circumstances and monitor the effect of the vaccination
• Apply an all in, all out system.
• Restrict as much as possible access to the farm and if needed build in safety measures.
• Apply a vermin control program.
• Clean thoroughly before disinfection.
• Apply a control program to check the quality of disinfection and vaccination.

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Housing and equipment

2.1. House design

The housing and equipment conditions must provide the birds with a comfortable environment, and allow
easy access to feed and water. For hygiene reasons, a concrete floor is recommended, as is a drainage
system to hose the house down. The house design is dependent on the local climate. Although many
climatic variations occur in the industry throughout the world, four main climate conditions can be
categorised:

Category typical house design

Moderate or mild climate controlled environment with natural or forced ventilation
Continental climate controlled environment with forced ventilation
Hot, dry climate controlled environment with additional cooling systems
Hot, humid climate open sided housing

2.1.1. Moderate or mild climate

Characteristics: Relatively small differences between summer and winter conditions, no extreme cold
winters or hot summers, normal to high relative humidity conditions.
The aim of house design in this type of climatic is to provide uniform climatic conditions throughout the
year. To achieve this the typical house is:
• effectively insulated (walls, roof and preferably floor)
• equipped with a concrete floor with vapour seal
• light controlled, for the management of lighting conditions
• equipped with adequate heating systems to provide starting temperature during winter periods
• equipped with ventilation systems that allow enough air movement at the birds’ level during summer
• occasionally equipped with additional cooling by moisturisers in air inlets (forced ventilation only)
• naturally ventilated, or forced ventilated with roof fans, tunnel ventilated or cross ventilated, or any
combinations of the above

2.1.2. Continental climate

Characteristics: Big differences between summer and winter conditions, sometimes with extremely cold
winters and relatively warm summers.
The aim of house design in this type of climate is more or less identical to that in moderate climates, but
special provision has to be made for the winter conditions. In addition to house designs specifications for
moderate climate, the house should include:
• highly insulated walls, floors, roofs,
• forced ventilation at least partly by roof fans for winter situations
• insulated fan shafts
• air inlets should be able to direct air towards the birds in summer conditions

2.1.3. Hot and dry climate

Characteristics: high day time temperatures, some times in combination with low night temperatures, and
low relative humidity.
The house design for these circumstances focuses on controlling temperature during daytime, by either
evaporative cooling or by high air speed across the birds:
• high ventilation capacity
• forced ventilation, often tunnel ventilation or cross ventilation

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• evaporative cooling by cooling pads or spraying water in inlets

• seal tunnel-ventilated houses completely to force air through cooling pads
• avoid radiant heat trough the roof by insulation and white or light-coloured roofing material
• avoid direct sunlight on roof and walls as much as possible
• install additional sprinklers to cool the roof
Air velocity reduces the perceived temperature by 3ºC per 1 m/sec of air speed, and can be used in extreme
situations to 3 m/s. depending on age and condition of the flock. Higher air velocities will cause distress.
The effectiveness of evaporative cooling depends on the relative humidity of the incoming air. At 20%
relative humidity, a theoretical reduction in temperature of 15ºC can be expected, while at 60% relative
humidity only 6-7ºC is possible. In practice, temperature reductions higher than 10ºC are rarely observed.
Above 70% relative humidity, the system is not effective anymore, and birds will be stressed because of
limitations of the possibility of panting.

2.1.4. Hot and humid climate

Characteristics: High temperature and high relative humidity during day time, often with high temperatures
during the night.
The house design for these conditions focuses on moving as much air as possible over the birds, as high
relative humidity prohibits evaporative cooling.

• lign houses preferably east west to avoid direct light entrance

• insulate the roofs to limit radiant heat by sunlight
• build houses on well-drained land, with sufficient natural air movement. Avoid air blocking by trees
etc. but allow ground vegetation to reduce reflected heat and direct sunlight.
• separate houses widely enough (20-30 m) to allow air movement
• avoid direct sunlight falling on the sidewalls, for instance by a sufficient roof overhang.
• use dwarf walls of 30-40 cm. Increase height of dwarf walls when climate varies
• limit the width of the house to 10-12 m
• install additional fans to remove air when wind or convective air streams are weak
• avoid radiant heat through the roof by insulation and the use of white or light-coloured roofing material
• avoid direct sunlight on roof and walls as much as possible
• install additional sprinklers to cool the roof, but only if an increase in humidity in the house can be
avoided!

2.2. Lighting

The light intensity in a broiler house should be made variable, to be able to adjust to different ages.
Preferably, a clock and a dimmer allowing a light intensity between 2 and 20 lux should be installed. An
even distribution of light should be achieved. Place fluorescent tubes parallel with the slope of the ceiling,
to avoid air blocking. Air inlets should preferably be light proof.

2.3. Ventilation

Ventilation is necessary to provide oxygen to the birds and to remove dust, ammonia, carbon dioxide, water
vapour and heat. In general, a minimum ventilation capacity of 0,4 m3/hour/kg live weight should be
installed. Maximum capacity should be 4 to 7 m3/hour/kg of live weight, depending on the climate
conditions. Maximum capacity should focus on removing enough heat from the house to limit the
temperature difference between incoming and outgoing air to 3-4ºC. A gradual increase between minimum
and maximum capacity should be possible. Ventilation systems can be natural or forced. In all cases, air
inlets and outlets should be protected against wild birds entering the house.

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2.3.1. Natural ventilation

Natural ventilation is based on the principle of natural flow of heated air, supported by the draft function of
wind blowing over the building. Allowing the upstream of heated air in the house to escape through
windows or roof will force fresh air to enter the house through the inlets. Air inlets can be closed by
curtains or baffles should preferably over the full length of the house. The limited control of the system,
especially in warm, humid, wind still conditions, makes natural ventilation inadequate for optimising the
climate in the house. Therefore, forced ventilation systems are normally recommended

2.3.2. Forced ventilation

In a forced ventilation system, air is moved out of the house by mechanical fans, and is replaced with fresh
air from the inlets. Climatic control is normally better than natural ventilation. A disadvantage of the
system, besides higher installation and energy costs, is the dependence on electricity. Therefore a standby
generator and an alarm system are necessary in case of power failure.
As a general rule, for each m3 air entering the house, 2.5 cm2 of air inlet space should be provided. The
pressure difference between inside and outside of the house determines the speed of the air entering the
house. The speed of the entering air should be high enough to allow mixing with existing warm air. If the
incoming air is cold, it should enter the house high enough to allow mixing before it reaches the bird. Fresh
warm air can be directed straight to the birds, depending on the age and condition of the flock. To save
energy, air can be recirculated with specially designed shafts.
In general, there are three forms of forced ventilation
• Roof ventilation; fans in the roof of the house, inlets over the whole length of both long sides. The
main purpose is to refresh the air and allow good mixing of incoming air with existing air.
• Cross ventilation; fans in one long side of the house, inlets in the other (or both). The main purpose is
to refresh the air and have some cooling by air velocity. Can be combined with evaporative cooling by
spraying.
• Tunnel ventilation; fans in one end of the house, inlets at the other end or in the long side. The main
purpose is to cool by air velocity. Can be combined with evaporative cooling by cooling pads to reduce
the temperature of the incoming air.

2.4. Heating and cooling

Optimal starting temperature for a day old broiler is about 34ºC. As nature does not normally provide this
temperature, air for the chicks usually has to be heated. A wide range of heaters is available on the market.
Warm air brooding, using space heaters, is based on supplying chicks with air at the right temperature.
These systems work well but can cause dehydration of the chicks. Especially in whole house heating, it is
difficult to tell which chicks are too warm or too cold.
Radiant heat brooding is based on supplying chicks with a range of temperatures.

2.5. Watering systems

Water is crucial for growing broilers. In many cases, public drinking water is used as the water supply,
which will normally be suitable for broilers. Water supplies from open water reservoirs or boreholes can
cause problems, as can water from poor quality public supplies. Minerals and contamination in the water
can influence the effectiveness of medicines and vaccines supplied through the water systems. Regular
checking of water quality has to be a routine practice on each farm. Clean water at the point of entry into
the broiler house does not necessary guarantee clean water for the birds. For this, drinkers should be kept
clean and drinker systems must be disinfected regularly, for instance by incidental chlorinating. As
adequate water has to be available for the birds at all times, it is necessary to consider a back up system on
the farm in case of a failure of the main supply.
The most commonly used systems are the “bell” drinker and the nipple drinker, although troughs are also
used. .

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• Bell drinkers supply “open” water, and need regular maintenance to avoid pollution and water spilling.
A minimum of 8-9 drinkers per 1000 birds should be provided. Maximum distance between bird and
drinker should be 2 m. For the first 3-4 days, additional mini-drinkers should be provided.
• Nipple drinkers, especially the so-called high-pressure nipple systems that do not need drip cups, are
getting more and more popular. They require lower maintenance, give better water quality
(“closed”water system) and result in dry litter due to decreased water spilling. The better water quality
as well as dry litter will result in less leg problems, hock burn and breast blisters. Although nipple
drinkers have benefits, there is a risk of water restriction when the system is not maintained and
controlled well, or when the number of nipples is not sufficient. Under normal conditions, 1 nipple per
12 birds should be available. In warm conditions or when birds have grown to high body weights, 1
nipple per 8-10 birds should be installed. Maximum distance between drinker lines should be 4 m.

2.6. Feeding system

Any feeding system should give all birds easy access to good quality feed in the form that has been
delivered from the feed mill. This means that during transportation, storage and delivery in the house,
contamination and growth of micro-organisms has to be prevented, and the feeding system should not
negatively influence the form of the feed. Both temperature and humidity can have damaging effects on
feed quality. Mycotoxins grow easily in hot, humid climates, especially when condensation occurs in the
feed bin.

2.6.1. Silos

A good feeding system starts with a proper feed storage facility for each house. Have bulk bins installed
that can store the feed for 10 days and that can be cleaned easily and regularly. Preferably, have two bulk
bins installed for each house to allow individual deliveries to finish before new ones are started.
Systems must be designed in such a way that during filling of the bulk bins and transportation of the feed
into the house, crumbles and pellets should be damaged as little as possible.

2.6.2. Feeders

On arrival, day old chicks are fed on feeder plates, egg trays or on paper, to allow easy access to the feed.
These feeders are gradually replaced by the normal feed system. The feed system should distribute the feed
evenly and without separation or grinding. Feeders can be filled manually or automatically. In all cases,
feeder heights must be adjustable to reach the shoulder height of the growing bird.
Feeder space allowance per bird:
• feeder plate: 70-100 birds per plate
• troughs: 4 cm feeder space per bird (2 cm trough)
• pan feeders: (Ø 33 cm) 75-100 birds per pan
Pan feeders are becoming more popular, as they provide fresher and cleaner feed, and can prevent spilling
more effectively. Pan feeders are often winchable for easy height adjustment, catching of chickens and
cleaning the house.
A feed weigher should be installed for day-to-day recording of feed consumption.

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Flock management
To utilize the genetic potential of Hybro PN+ over broilers, it is essential to give the birds a good start. The
key to successfully growing Hybro PN+ broilers lies in obtaining a sufficient body weight and a good,
uniform growth at 7 days of age. The body weight at 7 days is closely related with final body weights, so a
good start of the flock is essential for optimal broiler performance. For this, a systematic and efficient
management program has to be installed, which has to start even before the chicks arrive.

3.1. Chick quality

Essential for obtaining good results is start with good quality chicks. This means that incubation and
transportation procedures have to focus on getting and maintaining maximum chick quality. Especially the
control of the so-called embryo temperature during the incubation process is important in this aspect, as it
determines the development of the day-old chick and with that the potential production performances of the
broiler. Also dehydration during take off and transport can damage a flock severely. A good indicator for
chick quality is first week mortality. Excessive mortality (>1%) in the first week can indicate a problem in
either the hatchery, the transportation process, or the farm conditions.

3.2. Prior to arrival of the day-old chicks

• For hygiene and bio-security reasons, all sites must be single age (i.e. all in,all out)
• Aim to use one flock source to fill each house. If this is not possible, place groups of similar age
together in a house. When this is not possible, separate breeder ages at least during the brooding stage,
and do not mix the flock before 7 days of age
• Houses, equipment and the surrounding area must be cleaned and disinfected before the arrival of the
chicks
• Litter must be spread evenly to a depth of 2-8 cm
• To allow floor and litter to get warm, start heating the houses early enough. Check litter and floor
temperature on arrival of the chicks. Aim for a concrete floor temperature of at least 29°C
• Feed should be brought into the house just prior to arrival of the chicks
• Preferably, start with a good quality crumble, to maximize feed intake
• Fill the feeders to the rim, and place the feeders as low as possible for easy access
• Use additional feed on paper and place additional drinkers to help the birds to start. Maximum distance
to feed and/or water should be 1.5 m
• Just before the chicks arrive, flush the drinker lines to supply fresh water

3.3. Chick arrival

• Place the chicks as quickly as possible. Leaving stacks of chick boxes in heated houses will cause
overheating. Delaying placement will also dehydrate the chicks.
• Empty boxes gently near feed and water, spread out over the entire brooding area.
• Use feed on paper for the first 3-4 days, and top up the feed frequently to stimulate the birds
• Use additional drinkers, close to the water lines, for the first 2-3 days, and clean the drinkers regularly
• Use maximum light intensity (minimum 20 lux) on arrival of the birds
• Observe chick behaviour as an indicator of correct temperature. Hurdling indicates too low
temperature, as does increased noise from the birds. Preferably, chicks should gather in groups of 20-
30, with consistent movement between the groups. Birds should be lively and active.
• Check deep body temperature (cloaca temperature) of individual birds, and aim for a body temperature
of 40°C (104°F).
• Too stimulate appetite, make sure that room temperature is not too high

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3.4. Chicks from young breeder flocks

When chicks are produced from young breeder flocks (<35 weeks), special attention should be paid to the
arrival and starting of the chickens. Chicks from young breeder flocks produce relatively little heat at an
early age, so they need a higher starting temperature (1-2 °C). When these chicks are too cold, they do not
react so obviously with hurdling as chicks from older breeders, so the indicators for cold stress are not so
clear. As they are weaker, extra attention should be given to feed and water supply. Never mix these birds
with birds from older flocks.

3.5. Stocking density

The number of birds placed depends on the control of the climatic conditions in the house. Although chicks
can start at a density of 40 birds/m2, the stocking density in kg liveweight/m2 at killing time will determine
stocking density. In naturally ventilated houses a stocking density of 25 kg liveweight/m2 should not be
exceeded. In well managed, environmentally controlled houses, a maximum of 35-40 kg liveweight/m2
should be considered. Feeder and drinker space should be sufficient for the stocking density obtained.

3.6. Water management

Water is one of the most crucial nutritional factors. Fresh water must be available to avoid dehydration at
all times. Water and feed intake are directly related, and without adequate supply of water, feed intake and
growth will be reduced. Especially at the end of the growing period, when the majority of the breast meat is
formed, adequate uptake of clean, fresh water is essential. Under normal conditions, a water to feed ratio of
1.6:1 (nipple drinkers) to 1.8:1 (bell drinkers) will be obtained. Water consumption increases when air
temperature exceeds 20ºC with approximately 7% per degree centigrade. Sudden changes in water to feed
ratios and demands of water are early indicators of problems with feed quality, diseases or stress in the
flock. Therefore monitoring water intake on a daily base is essential.
Water spilling has a negative influence on litter quality, which leads to increased incidence of hockburn and
carcass down grading. Both the choice and the management of the water system will have a great influence
on water spilling. However, especially for nipple drinkers, there is a risk of restricting water resulting in a
reduction of growth. Heights and water pressure of the system must be constantly monitored and adjusted
according to the advice of the manufacturer. In general, the advice is to increase the water pressure at the
start up period of the flock and with increasing flock age. As for height, the advice is that, after the start up
period, birds have to stretch slightly to reach the nipple drinker.
To prevent spilling with bell drinkers water levels and drinker levels must be adjusted.
• Water level: for the first week, the water levels should be 0.5 cm below the top of the drinker rim.
After that, the water level should be 0.5 cm above the bottom of the drinker.
• Drinker level: bottom of the drinker should be level with the back of the bird from 16-18 days
onwards.

3.7. Feed management

To obtain sufficient body weight at 7 days is crucial for flock performance. This means that emphasis must
be put on the starting period, both in management and in the feed program. Stimulation of feed uptake by
easy access to feed and water and a good quality feed, preferably crumble, are essential for obtaining first
week results. The form of the grower and finisher feed is preferably a 3 mm pellet, as this stimulates feed
intake. Broilers are usually fed ad libitum. In some cases, some form of feed restriction is practised, to
control growth (see chapter on growth modification). Even when birds are fed ad libitum, feeding systems
should be emptied once a day from one week onwards, to allow the birds to clean up the feed and obtain
fresh feed in the house. After the feed system is emptied, start feeding immediately, at least within an hour.
Adjust the height of the feeders and the feed level according to the advice of the manufacturers, to prevent
spilling on one hand, and restricted access to feed on the other.

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When coccidiostats or other drugs are used in the feed, be sure to change to “clean” feed in time, respecting
the regulations for withdrawal times. As birds need to be delivered to the processing plant without feed in
their intestines, feed must be withdrawn in time for processing (see chapter pre-processing bird handling).
• At start, make sure the feeders are completely filled, for easy access for the birds.
• At start, place the feeders as low as possible
• Supply additional feed on paper, feed plates or trays for the first 3-4 days.
• Use a good quality feed, preferably in crumble form, as starting feed (see page 26 on Nutrition)
• Use a good quality feed, preferably in a pelleted form, as grower feed (see page 26 on Nutrition)
• After 1 week, allow the feed system to be emptied every day, for cleaning
• Adjust the height of the system and the feed level constantly
• Withdraw medicated feed and change to clean feed in time for processing
• Withdraw feed in time for processing

3.8. Temperature management

Depending on season and climate, the brooders should be turned on in the brooding area at least 24 hours
prior to arrival of the chicks, to allow the litter to be warmed up. For whole house brooding, warming
should start 48 hours before arrival. The aim of pre-heating the house is especially to get the floor up to
temperature, as the chicks lose most of their heat through the floor. Temperature of the concrete floor
should be at least 29°C when the chicks arrive. Only when very thick layers of litter are used (>10 cm), can
this temperature be slightly lower. With local brooding, have the ambient temperature no more than 4-6ºC
lower than under the brooder, to avoid draught. The ideal brooding system is a combination of space
heating and local heating, as the birds can more or less choose their required temperature. When whole
house brooding is used, birds cannot migrate to their optimal temperature environment and bird behaviour
will be less clear as an indicator. Special attention should be made to the noise that birds make, as this is a
particularly good indicator of temperatures being too low. Ideally, chicks should be evenly spread in the
whole brooding area. If the chicks are not evenly spread, the pattern of spreading can be used as an
indicator for determining the problem (see figure). Observing chick behaviour is a good guide to ambient
temperature and ventilation problems. Empty spots indicate poor climatic conditions such as draught, low
temperature, bad litter, bad lighting etc. However, as body temperatures fall, birds will stop their activity
and therefore also their migration. Regularly testing of deep body temperatures (cloaca temperatures) is a
good method for evaluating house conditions. The optimum body temperature for chicks is 40°C (104°F).
As the birds grow, temperature has to be reduced and ventilation must increase. Have temperature sensors
installed about 30 cm above the floor

Temperature requirements (chick level):

- day 1 33-34ºC
- day 2 32ºC
- day 3-7 29-30ºC
- week 2 26-28ºC
- week 3 24-25ºC
- week 4 23ºC
- week 5 20ºC
- week 6 and more 17-18°C

This is a guideline, and will depend on the development of the chicks, age of the breeders, and house
parameters such as floor temperature, air velocity and humidity. The actual temperature setting should be a
function of the body temperature of the birds.

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3.9. Ventilation management

The objective of ventilation is to remove heat, dust and waste gases like carbon dioxide, ammonia and
moisture, and to bring in fresh air. Any one of these points can determine ventilation rate, mainly
depending on outside conditions. Often ventilation rates are determined by litter condition. Although
overventilation results in energy waste and should be avoided, an optimal climate is essential for
maximising production results and needs to be the determining factor for ventilation. Poor ventilation will
result in respiratory problems (due to dust, bacterial contamination, ammonia and poor litter condition),
will enhance ascites and will result in slower growth, poor feed conversion and high mortality.
Some ventilation should be provided from the first day onwards, especially when open-air heaters are used,
to remove carbon dioxide. When the chicks are young, a minimum relative humidity of 60% is
recommended, to prevent dehydration. Later, relative humidity should be lower than 60%, to maintain litter
quality.
Primarily, ventilation rate should be determined by the amount of air, which needs to be replaced in the
house. This will be determined by the climatic conditions inside and outside and the condition of the litter.
The direction and speed of the incoming air will determine the cooling and mixing effect. When maximum
refreshment is needed, air speed should be high and directed to the bird. When maximum mixing is needed,
air speed should be high as well and directed to the ceiling.
Air inlets should not be obstructed and any wire covers should be free of dust.

3.10. Light management

Conventionally, broilers are grown in continuous light conditions, to maximize daily weight gain. Every
day a period of 1 hour of darkness should be given, to get birds accustomed to darkness in the event of a
power failure.
During the first week, broilers should receive bright light with a minimum intensity of 20 lux, to allow a
good start. To increase activity during starting, a dark period of 15 minutes every 2-4 hours can be used
from day three onwards. After the first week, the light intensity should be gradually decreased to a level,
which keeps the birds docile, without affecting their eating habits. This will normally be a level of 5 lux.
To control growth and increase bird activity, light programs can be used (see chapter on modifying growth
curves).
In open houses too much light may keep the birds too active. By shading the sides, the birds can be calmed
down.

3.11. Hot weather management

In tropical regions and during summer in more moderate regions, heat stress can increase mortality and
reduce growth. Adjusting climate conditions, management and feed composition can reduce the negative
effects of heat stress.

3.11.1. Climate control

Birds lose heat by radiation and convection (sensible heat loss) and by evaporation (insensible heat loss).
With increasing temperature, birds have to rely more on evaporation than on radiation and convection. For
example, at 25ºC, a broiler of 6 weeks loses approximately 75% of its heat by radiation and convection, and
25% by evaporation. At 35ºC, the heat loss is 10% through radiation and convection, and 90% through
evaporation. To lose heat by evaporation, birds have to pant, which uses energy and therefore has a
negative influence on feed conversion. When more than 10% of the birds are panting, action should be
taken to reduce temperature. At high humidity levels, losing heat by evaporation will not be effective. This
means at high temperature and high humidity levels, panting will not be effective and the birds cannot lose
sufficient heat. This will result in heat stress, increased body temperatures and mortality.
The heat loss by convection is influenced by air velocity. Increasing the air velocity at bird level to 2-3 m/s
will help the birds to lose heat through convection.

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3.11.2. Heat stress prevention

To prevent heat stress, the following actions can be taken:

• Insulate roofs and walls, try to prevent direct sunlight, do not use dark roofs in hot climates
• Use water sprinklers on the roof to reduce temperature. Make sure not to increase relative humidity in
the house this way.
• Ventilate with sufficient cool air, if possible cooled by evaporative cooling (depends on humidity)
• Lower stocking density if heat stress situations can be expected
• Panting requires increased drinking water. Make sure water supply is sufficient
• Insulate storage tanks and water pipes to supply cool water
• Increase air velocity at bird level to 2-3 m/s
• Avoid wet litter, as this will contribute to the relative humidity in the house

3.11.3. Heat stress management

With management, we can control heat stress by influencing the heat output of the birds. High stocking
densities will increase the total amount of heat produced in the house. When heat stress is expected in
specific periods, stocking densities must be reduced. As males are more susceptible to heat stress than
females, sex separate growing facilitates a reduction in density, especially of the males. Digestion generates
heat, therefore feeding during the hottest part of the day should be avoided. When birds regularly move
from their resting position, heat will be dissipated. This can be achieved with intermittent lighting or
intermittent feeding programs. Birds must remain active, but should not be stressed. This means that
working in the flock should be done in a tranquil way. At high temperature, birds rely on panting for heat
loss. This means that enough fresh water must be available. To bring down humidity in the house and allow
more effective panting by the birds, wet litter must be avoided. Supplementing drinking water with vitamin
C and aspirin is reported to reduce heat stress as well.
• reduce stocking densities
• grow males and females separately, and reduce stocking densities especially for the males
• feed during the cool periods
• supply enough water, insulate water tanks and water pipes
• use intermittent lighting or feeding programs
• avoid stress in the flock
• supplement water with 1g of vitamin C and 0.3g of aspirin per litre.

3.11.4. Heat stress feed composition

High temperature conditions can enhance mould growth and can cause deterioration in vitamins. This
means that feed quality must be controlled and the storage time of feed in the farm bins must be reduced.
Under high temperature conditions, birds tend to eat less. Between 20 and 30ºC, feed intake will be reduced
by 1-2%, while in the temperature range between 30 and 35ºC, feed intake can be reduced by more than
5%. If the feed intake is reduced that much, attention has to be given to the total intake of nutrients.
Vitamins and minerals have to be increased accordingly, as well as coccidiostats and other drugs.
Feed digestion produces metabolic heat. In particular, the elimination of excessive protein increases heat
production. The amino acid requirement of the birds must always be met, but under heat stress conditions
this must be achieved with a low level of total protein content. High quality protein and synthetic amino
acids can contribute to this.
In addition, carbohydrates produce more heat during digestion than fat. Replacing energy sources from
carbohydrates with energy sources from fat will help in reducing heat stress. Fat inclusion also stimulates
feed intake and will therefore help to reduce the negative influence of feed stress on growth.
Panting results in reduced levels of plasma carbon dioxide and therefore induces alkalosis. This negative
effect of heat stress can be corrected by adding bicarbonates to the drinking water.
• control feed to eliminate mould formation and loss of vitamin efficiency
• reduce storage time of feed on the farm

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• when feed intake is reduced, increase nutrient concentrations

• reduce total protein content without affecting essential amino acid levels
• use high quality raw materials to maximize digestibility, especially of amino acids
• replace carbohydrates by fat as an energy source
• add bicarbonate to the drinking water to reduce alkalosis

3.12. Modifying growth curves

In the industry there is a trend towards the regulation of broiler growth, mainly to reduce leg problems,
ascites and late mortality, and improve feed conversion. In extreme situations, excessive growth of Hybro
PN+ broilers can result in a reduced liveability, especially with prolonged growing periods. In this situation,
modifying growth to a slightly lower level than maximum will result in better liveability. This can for
instance occur at high altitudes.
When growing periods are relatively short, growth must be stimulated as much as possible to achieve
maximum body weight.
Modifying growth curves must be learned by experience. The need for modification, the level of
modification and the best way to do it will depend on the local situation.
Never limit growth before one week of age, as 7-day body weight is important for final results. If body
weight gain needs to be restricted, preferably do not start before 10 days of age. The time of restriction will
vary according to the local situation and the method used.
Methods to modify the growth curve are:
• Light programs for stimulation: especially in the first and eventually in the second week, light
programs can be used to stimulate activity and feed intake. Normally these programs consist of 15-30
minutes dark period every 2-3 hours
• Intermittent light programs: these programs consist of cycles of alternating light and dark periods,
normally 1-2 hours of light followed by 2-3 hours of dark. These programs normally reduce early
growth and increase bird activity and can be practised until one week before processing. The effect is
an improvement in liveability due to better development of the cardiovascular system and legs. A
positive effect on FCR can also be expected.
• Short daylight programs consist of several hours of continuous dark per day. Day lengths of less than
16 hours will cause a significant reduction in feed intake and live weight gain. These programs should
be applied in the second and at the latest, third week, to prevent final body weight reduction.
• Feed restriction programs: these programs are based on regulating growth by limiting nutrient intake,
either by limiting nutrient density or by limiting total feed allowance per day. Often a level of 95% of
ad libitum nutrient intake is used. Although these programs can work in specific situations, a high level
of control is needed.

When using lighting programs, it is important to have broilers on long lighting periods one week before
processing, to avoid excessive levels of activity during catching.
The following guidelines will reduce the risks associated with either feed or light control:
• First of all, decide if a modified growth curve will be necessary for the flock, and what level of
modification should be obtained. Although first week stimulation will always be beneficial, restriction
of growth will often be not necessary for Hybro PN+ broilers.
• Do not start any restriction program before 7-10 days of age.
• Make sure that restriction programs are not too severe or last too long
• Ensure that adequate ventilation systems are installed that can manage the fluctuating bird activity
patterns
• Ensure that adequate feed and water equipment is installed, as the maximum demand for feed and
water will be greater, due to a less even feeding and drinking pattern over the day
• Regular chick weighing is required for adjusting the restriction programs.

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3.13. Preslaughter bird handling

Prior to and during catching, transport and processing, some guidelines have to be followed to ensure
animal welfare, product quality and efficiency.
• It is essential to have good planning and a strict time schedule, in order to utilise trucks and catching
crew as much as possible and prevent unnecessary waiting for the birds.
• Bad, misshapen and small chicks may disqualify the whole flock. Remove them some days before
catching
• Withdrawal periods of drugs such as coccidiostats must be respected
• When lighting programs are practised to modify growth curves, 23 h of light must be given in the last
week before first depletion, to ensure that the birds are calm during capture
• If whole wheat is included in the diet, this should be removed 2 days before processing
• Withdraw feed 8-10 hours before processing starts. This includes transport and catching time.
• Water should be available for as long as possible. Turn off water and remove water lines as late as
possible before catching. If possible, turn off water by section to be caught, to avoid excessive periods
without water.
• Before catching, have the feeders and drinkers removed or winched out of the way
• Use portable wire frames for partitioning of the house to avoid overcrowding
• Do not drive the birds
• Catch broilers gently by the shank and feet, not more than 4-5 per hand and place them carefully in the
crates. A well-grown flock can be seriously down graded by lack of care during catching, due to
bruising, broken limbs and broken wings. This must be avoided both from a welfare aspect as well as
quality. If birds are badly handled, they are more stressed and meat quality is adversely affected.
• Do not overstock the crates, especially in hot weather and with prolonged transportation and waiting
times.
• Catching and processing should be timed in such a way that waiting is avoided as much as possible. If
birds have to be held at the factory prior to slaughter, a covered, climatic controlled holding bay should
be used. In particular protection should be provided against direct sunlight and extreme wind and cold.
Adequate ventilation and cooling system are also important.

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Nutrition
In most countries feed costs represent over 70 percent of the cost of producing poultry meat. The
composition of the diet will have a substantial influence on technical performance. Broiler rations should
be formulated to give the correct balance of energy, protein and especially amino acids, fatty acids,
minerals and vitamins, to optimize growth and performance. Feed specifications differ for males and
females, and depend on the final body weight. The nutritional value of raw materials can be variable and
routine chemical analysis should be carried out on feed samples, to ensure optimal and constant feed
quality. Some raw materials interact with each other and the total value of the different components in the
feed does not always represent the actual value of the feed. Also the total level of inclusion of raw materials
and the use of enzymes, organic acids or other additives will alter the actual nutritional value of the
complete feed. A specialist poultry nutritionist, knowing the local situation, should be consulted for
formulating adequate broiler feed. The following specifications will allow good performance in healthy
broilers, kept under the management conditions described earlier.

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Nutrient recommendations for Hybro PN+ broilers

Feed name Pre-starter Starter Grower Finisher
Age fed (days) 0-7 7-14 14-30 30-end
Nutrient
Crude Protein % 22.0-24.0 21.5-23.5 21.0-23.0 19.0-21.0

Met. Energy (poultry) kcal/kg 3050 3100 3150 3200

MJ/kg 12.77 12.98 13.19 13.40

Linoleic Acid % 1.25 1.25 1.20 1.00

Dig. Lysine, g/MJ ME 0.98 0.90 0.81 0.71

Digestible Amino Acids

Lysine % 1.25 1.17 1.07 0.95
Methionine % 0.46 0.43 0.41 0.37
Meth. & Cystine % 0.93 0.87 0.81 0.74
Threonine % 0.81 0.76 0.71 0.64
Valine % 0.94 0.88 0.81 0.73
Iso-leucine % 0.84 0.78 0.73 0.66
Arginine % 1.29 1.21 1.11 1.00
Tryptophan % 0.21 0.20 0.18 0.16

Minerals
Calcium % 1.00 0.95 0.90 0.85
Available Phosphorus % 0.50 0.48 0.45 0.42
Sodium % 0.18-0.23 0.16-0.21 0.16-0.21 0.16-0.21
Chloride , max. % 0.23 0.23 0.23 0.25
Potassium, max. % 1.00 0.95 0.90 0.90
DEB mEq/kg 210-260 190-240 180-230 180-230

Vitamins (added per kg feed)

Vitamin A IU 12000 12000 10000 12000
Vitamin D3 IU 5000 5000 5000 5000
Vitamin E IU 80 80 80 50
Vitamin K (Menadione) mg 4 4 3 2
Vitamin B12 mg 0.020 0.020 0.020 0.016
Biotin mg 0.20 0.20 0.20 0.15
Folic Acid mg 2 2 1.75 1.5
Nicotinic Acid mg 80 80 60 50
Pyridoxine (B6) mg 5 5 4 3
Riboflavin (B2) mg 8 8 8 6
Thiamine (B1) mg 5 5 4 3
Pantothenic Acid mg 20 20 17 15
Choline mg 1400 1400 1300 1200

Trace Minerals (added per kg feed)

Copper mg 20 20 20 20
Iodine mg 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5
Iron mg 40 40 40 40
Manganese mg 120 120 120 120
Zinc mg 100 100 100 100
Selenium mg 0.3 0.3 0.3 0.3

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