By Ndumiso Tshuma
Poultry farmers are being urged to prioritise the welfare of their birds, with agriculture experts warning that poor treatment can lead to lower productivity and reduced profits.
Dr Enoch Machingauta, a poultry specialist with Econutrivet, said that although chickens are ultimately sold and slaughtered, their care while alive directly affects their growth and overall yield.
“A happy flock is a profitable flock,” said Dr Machingauta. “Just because the birds will be slaughtered doesn’t mean they should be neglected. A good poultry farmer is constantly aware of the welfare, health, and environment of their flock.”
He said close observation of the birds and their surroundings is key, and encouraged farmers to develop what he called “stock sense”, the ability to detect problems through sight and sound.
“The chirping or vocalisations of birds are a good indicator of their condition,” he said. “If they are chirping loudly, they may be hungry or cold. Respiratory sounds like wheezing can signal illness, while knocking noises at the feeders may suggest the containers are empty.”
Dr Machingauta also warned that sudden loud noises coming from the pen may indicate distress caused by predators or other threats.
“An excitable outburst from the birds could be a sign of fear or danger,” he said.
He advised farmers to observe the chickens’ movement and breathing, as well as how they are distributed within the pen. Uneven distribution, such as birds crowding into one corner or avoiding a particular area, could signal problems with temperature, lighting, or ventilation.
“Watching bird behaviour helps farmers detect problems early,” he said. “Panting or abnormal breathing can be signs of heat stress or respiratory disease.”
Dr Machingauta added that farmers who invest in proper care for their chickens are likely to see better growth rates, reduced mortality, and higher returns.
“A farmer who listens to and watches their birds carefully will avoid unnecessary losses and improve profitability,” he said.
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