Poultry

Poultry Definition

Poultry can be defined as domestic fowls including chickens, turkeys, geese and ducks raised for the production of meat and eggs. (feathers)

Brooder

Heating device that keeps young chicks warm.

Incubator

 Heating device used to hatch eggs

PESTS AND DISEASES

1. Ruffled Feathers (no energy to preen)

2. Standing/sitting with head down

3. Not Eating anything, loss of appetiteRed thing on their head turning pale

4. Significantly reduced production of meat or eggs.

5. Loss of weight

6. Pecking order

7. Pecking themselves

8. Coccidiosis

9. Bird flu

IDENTIFY FACTORS AFFECTING PRODUCTION

Nutrients, meat chickens have high protein. These nutrients keep the chickens healthy and also makes them gain weight or increase egg production.

Environment is also important. We have an electric fence to protect us from foxes, dogs, eagles and snakes.

LEGAL REQUIREMENTS

1. Must be provided with feed and water

2. Must provide shelter and protection from predators

3. Provide immunity from diseases. Zoonotic disease have to be notified

4. Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Aaron Cai Act 1979 proctor

POULTRY HOUSING

Evaluating Steps:

1. Outline what you are evaluating

2. Describe the advantages

3. Describe the disadvantages

4. Provide your opinion or judgment

FREE RANGE

1. Allowed access to outdoors

2. 10000/Hectare

3. Hens can exhibit natural behavior

4. Exposed to predators

5. Bullying and pecking order

6. Eggs can be contaminated with salmonella

BARN

1. Allowed to roam freely inside the shed

2. Protected

3. Lack of Vitamin D

4. Legs weak.

CAGED

1. No freedom

2. Nor allowed to exhibit natural behavior

3. Protected

4. High quality food

5. Mesh wire

Evaluating the free range system.

Free range is a housing system for poultry where hens are allowed access to the outdoors where they can display their natural behaviors

1. Animal Welfare: One of the primary benefits of the free-range system is improved animal welfare. Birds have the freedom to engage in natural behaviors like dust bathing, pecking, and foraging for insects and plants. Access to sunlight and fresh air can also be beneficial for their health and well-being.

2. Nutritional Benefits: Free-range poultry may have a more varied diet due to foraging, which can lead to healthier and tastier meat and eggs. The exercise and exposure to natural elements can also contribute to better muscle development and healthier fat composition.

3. Space Requirements: Free-range systems require more land compared to intensive indoor systems, as the birds need ample outdoor space to roam and forage. As a result, it may not be as feasible for large-scale production as intensive systems that can utilize vertical space and have higher stocking densities.

4. Environmental Impact: The free-range system can have a lower environmental impact in terms of reduced waste buildup and lower energy requirements for ventilation and lighting. However, the system's overall environmental sustainability depends on factors such as land management practices and waste management.

5. Disease Risk: Free-range systems may expose birds to a broader range of environmental pathogens, including wild bird diseases. Proper biosecurity measures are essential to mitigate the risk of disease transmission between wild and domestic birds.

6. Predation: The free-range system exposes poultry to potential predation from wild animals and birds of prey. Farmers must implement protective measures to safeguard the flock.

7. Economic Considerations: Free-range poultry products often command higher prices in the market due to perceived quality, animal welfare, and environmental benefits. However, the increased land requirements and potential additional labor costs for management and predator control must also be considered.

8. Consumer Perception: Some consumers prefer free-range poultry products, viewing them as more ethical and of higher quality. Consequently, this can create a niche market for producers.

Overall, the free-range housing system for poultry can be a more ethical and environmentally friendly alternative to intensive indoor systems. However, successful implementation requires careful planning, management, and consideration of various factors, including animal welfare, space requirements, disease risks, and economic viability. It may not be suitable for large-scale commercial production, but it can be a viable option for smaller, niche markets and for farmers looking to prioritize animal welfare and environmental sustainability.

In my opinion free range is a more ethical production system and viewed more favorably by consumers. However, it is not the most economical and hens are more prone to predators. Therefore in my opinion the free range system can be modified to the barn system.