Precision Nutrition Strategies for Extending the Laying Cycle in Poultry

Expert insights reveal the key factors in maximizing the productivity of brown and white birds

As the demand for eggs continues to rise, poultry farmers are seeking innovative ways to extend the laying cycle of their birds. With the goal of achieving 80 weeks and 380 eggs for brown birds, and 100 weeks and 500 eggs for white birds, precision nutrition strategies have become increasingly important. At the recent British Free Range Producers annual conference, industry experts shared their insights on optimizing the nutrition of poultry from chick starter rations all the way to 50-week layers. This article delves into the key considerations and techniques discussed during the conference, shedding light on the crucial role of nutrition in maximizing the productivity of laying birds.

Building a strong foundation: The importance of chick starter diets

During the conference, Ralph Bishop, Premier Nutrition poultry nutrition and innovation manager, emphasized the significance of starting off on the right foot with chick starter diets. The first 8-10 weeks are crucial for pullet skeletal development, as well as organ and muscle development. Bishop stressed the need for dense rations that are high in energy (12MJ) and contain a highly digestible balanced protein to support organ development. Attention to detail is also required when it comes to calcium and phosphorous intake to ensure strong bone development. The inclusion of phytase enzymes in the rations was also highlighted as a useful addition.

Preparing for the future: Weeks 10-16

While weeks 10-16 may seem relatively quiet in terms of bird development, Bishop emphasized that this period provides an opportunity to prepare for future stresses and strains. This includes moving the pullets to layer farms, vaccination, and the start of the egg cycle. During this stage, it is vital to train the pullets to eat and build the gizzard and gastrointestinal tract. Coarser particles and insoluble fibers can aid in this process.

Fueling growth: The importance of intake

From 16 weeks until maturity at 30 weeks, feed consumption per day rises from 75g/bird/day to around 120g. This increase is necessary to ensure the corresponding bodyweight rises from 1,300-1,400g to 1,900g. Bishop emphasized the crucial role of intake during this period, as the birds transition from no egg production at week 16 to 90% production by week 22. To support this rapid growth, a suitable dense ration is essential.

Egg size and quality considerations

At 30 weeks, producers should evaluate the areas in which they would like to see improvements. One key consideration is egg size. Bishop advised working towards eggs weighing 62-63g, as hens producing larger eggs, weighing in at 65g, may experience issues with shell quality later in life. Additionally, producers need to carefully manage the supply of calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin D3 to maintain high shell quality. Bishop cautioned against increasing calcium intake beyond 4%, as studies have shown a decline in shell thickness and strength, as well as the build-up of kidney ash.

The importance of clean water

Charles Macleod, St David’s Poultry commercial manager of layers, highlighted the critical role of clean water in maintaining the health and productivity of laying birds. Clean water is essential to prevent issues such as gut dysbiosis, which can negatively impact egg production and quality, increase mortality and morbidity, decrease feed efficiency and growth performance, impair the immune system, and make the birds more susceptible to other infections and gut inflammation. Macleod emphasized that factors such as feed composition, temperature, and humidity significantly influence water consumption and should be taken into account.

Conclusion:

Precision nutrition strategies play a vital role in extending the laying cycle of poultry. From the early stages of chick development to the mature laying period, careful attention to diet and nutrition can maximize the productivity and health of laying birds. By providing dense rations, ensuring proper intake, and considering factors such as egg size and water quality, farmers can optimize their operations and meet the growing demand for eggs in a sustainable and efficient manner.


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