By Ndumiso Tshuma
A leading poultry specialist has urged farmers to pay closer attention to chick management during the brooding phase, warning that poor practices could lead to disease, stunted growth, and significant losses.
Dr Enoch Machingauta, a poultry expert with Econutrivet, said many of the challenges encountered in the early stages of chick rearing are preventable through good planning, hygiene, and careful observation.
“As the saying goes, a well-brooded chick is a well-raised chick,” said Dr Machingauta. “Many challenges await the new chicks. Most can be prevented by good management and constant observation.”
One of the most common mistakes, he said, begins before the chicks even reach the poultry house.
“Cold, overheating, and delays during transportation leave chicks stressed and weak, compromising their ability to adapt,” he warned.
He also highlighted the danger of delaying feed and water provision immediately after placement.
“Delays in getting chicks on feed and water can cause dehydration and poor feed intake,” Dr Machingauta said.
Temperature control during the early days is also critical. According to Dr Machingauta, both chilling and overheating are frequent errors that can prove fatal.
“Inexperienced farmers often make the mistake of failing to regulate temperature properly during brooding, leading to unnecessary losses.”
He further underscored the need for cleanliness in the brooding environment, saying unsanitary conditions such as reusing old litter or the presence of rodent droppings increase the risk of infections.
Overcrowding and poor bedding conditions were also flagged as contributors to stress and disease.
“Piling of chicks due to cold or stress can lead to suffocation and injuries,” he said. “Damp litter also invites disease and discomfort.”
Dr Machingauta warned against mixing different types or ages of chicks, which he said creates unnecessary competition and heightens the risk of infection.
“Placing more than one variety or age group together increases stress and disease risk. Each flock needs its own space and care.”
He also called for proper lighting in brooding areas, warning that chicks will not eat or drink in darkness.
“Lighting is essential. Chicks will not feed or hydrate in the dark, and this severely limits their early development.”
Routine procedures such as debeaking and declawing should also be avoided at this stage.
“These interventions add stress and are not necessary for young chicks. Dehydration due to abrupt equipment changes or misuse of medication is another common and avoidable problem.”
Sufficient feeder and floor space is also vital.
“Crowding results in stress, bullying, and slow growth. Each chick needs enough space to feed and rest comfortably,” he explained.
Lastly, he cautioned against excessive handling and movement of chicks, which disrupts feeding and resting routines, and urged farmers to remain alert to subtle signs of illness.
“Low-grade infections can weaken the flock without being immediately obvious,” he said. “Stress in chicks is preventable. With the right environment, feed, water, and care, farmers set their flock up for long-term success.”
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