M ANAGEMENT G UIDE

Cage Production Systems

Institut de Sélection Animale BV

Villa ‘de Körver’,
Spoorstraat 69, 5831 CK Boxmeer
P.O. Box 114, 5830 AC Boxmeer
The Netherlands-EU
T +31 485 319 111
F +31 485 319 112

www.isapoultry.com
I N TRO D UC T I O N
Many years of investment in genetic research and
development have resulted in layers with excellent
performance traits such as liveability, production and
egg quality.
These highly favourable genetic characteristics can only
be fully realized when layers are supported with good
management practices, which include, but are not limited
to, good quality feed, housing and constant attention
to the birds behaviour and welfare.
The purpose of this management guide is to help
producers to gain the best possible results from their
investment. This will be achieved by providing conditions
in which the layers can thrive. The information supplied
in this publication is based on the analysis of extensive
research and field results, produced over time and with
many years of experience.
We do recognize that many egg producers have
developed their own management programmes, as a
result of their experience with specific housing types,
climate, feed, market conditions .Therefore do not
hesitate to use your own experience in conjunction
with the guidelines in this guide. And of course, do not
hesitate to consult our distributors who will be happy
to help in any way they can.
We are constantly seeking to develop our breeding
programme and welcome feedback from the field. Please
send your technical results to isa.technicalfieldresults@
hendrix-genetics.com . Excel files are available on request
to help our distributors to follow the flocks performance
and record information.

Institut de Sélection Animale BV

Villa ‘de Körver’,
Spoorstraat 69, 5831 CK Boxmeer
P.O. Box 114, 5830 AC Boxmeer
The Netherlands-EU
T +31 485 319 111
F +31 485 319 112

www.isapoultry.com

V S 1405

ISA - Management Guide - Cage Production Systems 1

C O N TE N T S
INTRODUCTION ............................... 1
CONTENTS ....................................... 2
WARRANTY DISCLAIMER ..................................... 3
REARING PERIOD .............................. 4
GOOD B R O O D I N G C O N D I T I O N S A R E V I TA L T O G I V E
T H E C H I C K S T H E B E S T P O S S I B L E S TA RT ................. 4
S TA N D A R D S O F T E M P E R AT U R E A N D H U M I D I T Y ............. 5
L I G H T I N G P R O G R A M M E T O E N C O U R A G E F E E D I N TA K E A N D
G R O W T H ....................................................... 5
F E E D I N G P R O G R A M M E T O E N C O U R A G E G R O W T H .......... 5
FROM 4 TO 16 WEEKS - BUILDING THE POTENTIAL
O F T H E F U T U R E L AY E R ................................... 6
H O U S I N G A N D E Q U I P M E N T .................................. 6
F E E D I N G P R O G R A M M E ........................................ 6
S TA RT E R D I E T ................................................. 6
G R O W E R D I E T ................................................. 6
F E E D I N G T E C H N I Q U E ......................................... 7
T H E B U I L D U P O F F I N E PA RT I C L E R E S I D U E S ................. 7
R A P I D F E E D I N TA K E ........................................... 7
F E E D I N G T I M E S A N D R A P I D F E E D I N TA K E ................... 7
A G O O D F O L L O W U P W I T H A W E E K LY C H E C K O F T H E
D E V E L O P M E N T ............................................. 7
U N I F O R M I T Y .................................................. 8
BEAK T R I M M I N G : A D E L I C AT E O P E R AT I O N ............. 8
A G E O F B E A K T R I M M I N G ..................................... 8
B E A K T R I M M I N G / T R E AT M E N T AT D AY O L D ............... 8
B E A K T R I M M I N G AT 7 - 10 D AY S .......................... 8
B E A K T R I M M I N G AT 8 – 10 W E E K S ......................... 9
B E A K T R I M M I N G AT T R A N S F E R ............................... 9
GENERAL PRINCIPLES OF THE LIGHTING PROGRAMMES
I N R E A R I N G P E R I O D ....................................... 9
L I G H T I N G P R O G R A M M E A N D G R O W T H : ..................... 9
L I G H T D U R AT I O N A N D G R O W T H :.......................... 10
C O N T R O L O F S E X U A L M AT U R I T Y .......................... 10
R O L E O F B O D Y W E I G H T ..................................... 10
L I G H T S T I M U L AT I O N ........................................ 10
L I G H T I N T E N S I T Y I N R E A R I N G .............................. 10
LIGHTING PROGRAMME IN DARK HOUSES ............ 11
L I G H T D U R AT I O N D U R I N G T H E F I R S T W E E K S ............. 11
L I G H T D U R AT I O N A N D G R O W T H P E R F O R M A N C E S ........ 11
D U R AT I O N O F L I G H T AT T H E P L AT E A U A N D G R O W T H
P E R F O R M A N C E S ............................................. 11
L I G H T S T I M U L AT I O N A C C O R D I N G T O : … ................ 11
LIGHTING P R O G R A M M E I N H O T C L I M AT E H O U S E S ... 12
B E T W E E N L AT I T U D E S 20° N O RT H A N D 20° S O U T H .... 12
H I G H T E M P E R AT U R E A N D G R O W T H ....................... 12
2 ISA - Management Guide - Cage Production Systems
LIGHTING P R O G R A M M E S F O R S E M I - D A R K H O U S E S .. 13 VACCINATIONS TECHNIQUES ............ 23
D E F I N I T I O N O F B U I L D I N G T Y P E S .......................... 13 I M M U N I T Y ................................................... 23
R E A R I N G I N S E M I - D A R K H O U S E S .......................... 13 O C U L O - N A S A L I N S T I L L AT I O N ( E Y E D R O P S ) .............. 23
ADAPTING REARING PROGRAMMES TO PRODUCTION B E A K D I P P I N G ............................................... 23
FA C I L I T I E S .................................................... 14 S K I N P U N C T U R E A N D S C A R I F I C AT I O N ( S C R AT C H ) ........ 23
S U M M A RY O F P R A C T I C A L A D V I C E : ...................... 24
PRODUCTION PERIOD ...................... 15
APPENDIX ....................................... 25
TRANSFER A N D S TA RT O F L AY ......................... 15 D AY L E N G T H TA B L E S A C C O R D I N G T O L AT I T U D E .......... 25
A G E O F T R A N S F E R .......................................... 15 L AT I T U D E S ................................................... 25
LIGHTING AS A TOOL FOR ENCOURAGING A RAPID C O N V E R S I O N TA B L E ........................................ 25
A D A P TAT I O N T O A N E W E N V I R O N M E N T ................... 15
E N C O U R A G I N G WAT E R C O N S U M P T I O N .................... 15 NOTES ............................................ 26
F E E D I N G F O R P H Y S I O L O G I C A L N E E D S ..................... 15
E N C O U R A G I N G F E E D C O N S U M P T I O N ...................... 15
M O N I T O R I N G E N V I R O N M E N TA L A N D P R O D U C T I O N
PA R A M E T E R S ................................................. 16
GENERAL PRINCIPLES OF LIGHTING PROGRAMMES
D U R I N G T H E P R O D U C T I O N P E R I O D .................... 16
C H I C K E N S ’ S E N S I B I L I T Y T O C H A N G E S I N I L L U M I N AT I O N . 16
L I G H T I N G P R O G R A M M E S AT S TA RT O F L AY : 15 H O U R S AT
50% P R O D U C T I O N ........................................ 16
C Y C L I C A L L I G H T I N G P R O G R A M M E S ....................... 17
LIGHT I N T E N S I T Y M A N A G E M E N T A N D R E L AT I O N W I T H
L I V E A B I L I T Y .............................................. 17
LIGHT INTENSITY DURING THE REARING PERIOD ......... 17
LIGHT INTENSITY I N P R O D U C T I O N ........................ 18
LIGHT INTENSITY A N D L I V E A B I L I T Y ........................ 18
OVIPOSITION T I M E S A N D S H E L L Q U A L I T Y ............ 19
A R E M I N D E R O N E G G F O R M AT I O N ........................ 19
L AY I N G T I M E S O R O V I P O S I T I O N T I M E S ................... 19
S H E L L F O R M AT I O N ......................................... 20
A R E M I N D E R O N S H E L L F O R M AT I O N ...................... 20
H O W T O I M P R O V E S H E L L Q U A L I T Y ....................... 20
ADJUSTING EGG WEIGHT TO MEET MARKET
R E Q U I R E M E N T S .......................................... 20
G E N E T I C A S P E C T S ........................................... 20
B O D Y W E I G H T AT S E X U A L M AT U R I T Y ...................... 20
C O N T R O L O F T H E S E X U A L M AT U R I T Y ..................... 21
B O D Y W E I G H T AT 24 W E E K S ............................... 21 WARRANTY DISCLAIMER
I N F L U E N C E O F H E AT ........................................ 21
This production management guide for layers has been prepared by Institut de Sélection Animale B.V. and its affiliates
L I G H T I N G P R O G R A M M E S D U R I N G P R O D U C T I O N .......... 21
(“ISA”) with the greatest possible care and dedication to inform and assist ISA’s customers on the various manners of
production to improve their production results while using ISA products.
WATER: THE MOST CRITICAL NUTRIENT
...................................................... 22 However, specific circumstances at the farm of the customer may impact the usability and reliability of the statements
W AT E R Q U A L I T Y ............................................ 22 and information mentioned in this production management guide.
M O N I T O R I N G WAT E R Q U A L I T Y ............................ 22
No implied or explicit guarantees are given by ISA as to the accuracy and completeness of the provided information
C L E A N I N G T H E P I P E S Y S T E M D U R I N G T H E S A N I TA RY B R E A K .
in this production management guide. Applying the information as stated in this production management guide in the
............................................................... 22
customers’ production environment remains a decision of the customer, to be taken at its sole discretion.
T R E AT M E N T O F D R I N K I N G WAT E R ......................... 22
C L E A N I N G T H E D R I N K E R S .................................. 22 ISA will not be liable for any losses or damages whatsoever, whether in contract, tort or otherwise arising from reliance
W AT E R C O N S U M P T I O N ................................... 22 on information contained in this production management guide.
ISA - Management Guide - Cage Production Systems 3
REARING PERIOD
S TA N D A R D S O F T E M P E R AT U R E A N D During the first few days, it is important to maintain
GOOD B R O O D I N G C O N D I T I O N S A R E V I TA L T O G I V E T H E C H I C K S the chicks under a maximumw light regime (22 to 23
HUMIDITY
T H E B E S T P O S S I B L E S TA RT hours) with a high intensity (30-40 lux) to encourage
In order to ensure that the equipment and the litter intake of water and feed. Afterwards, the light intensity
The period from one day old to the point of first egg Any delay in growth at 4-5 weeks will be reflected in a reduction are warm for chick arrival, we advise starting to raise should be gradually reduced to reach a level of about
production is a critical time in the life of the laying hen. in bodyweight at 16 weeks and then in performance. This is the house temperature at least 36 hours before chick 10 lux at 15 days of age in dark houses. Light intensity
It is during this time that the physiological capability of particularly true for mean egg weight in temperate climates arrival so that it reaches a house temperature of 28 to will also depend on bird behaviour.
the hen is developed. and may cause a delay in start of lay in hot climates near the 31°C. The concrete floor must be at 28°C and litter at
equator.
Note: a cyclical programme could be applied for the first
30°C. The best way to check if the house temperature
Success in the rearing period leads to success in the 2 weeks (4hours of light /2hours of dark, repeated 4
is correct during the first days after arrival is to measure
laying house and this starts with chick arrival. All the times to equal 24hours) and then follow recommended
cloacal temperature of the chicks (40°C/104°F).
standards and programmes set out in this section have lighting programme, which is 18 hours of light on third
been proven to give excellent performance in the week.
Standards for temperature and humidity
production stages.
Bodyweight development Age in days Brooding temperature at the Brooding temperature at 2-3 Room temperature Relative humidity optimum-
edge of the brooders m from the brooders maximum in%
• 12 0 – 3 35 °C 29 – 28 °C 33 – 31 °C 55 – 60
BW growth 4 – 7 34 °C 28 – 27 °C 32 – 31 °C 55 – 60
Growth (g) 8 – 14 32 °C 27 – 26 °C 30 – 28 °C 55 – 60
15 – 21 29 °C 26 – 25 °C 28 – 26 °C 55 – 60
22 – 24 25 – 23 °C 25 – 23 °C 55 – 65
25 – 28 23 – 21 °C 23 – 21 °C 55 – 65
29 – 35 21 – 19 °C 21 – 19 °C 60 – 70
After 35 19 – 17 °C 19 – 17 °C 60 – 70
Skeletal
Notes: FEEDING PROGRAMME TO ENCOURAGE
• The heat losses incurred from contact with the litter GROWTH
• 6
are very important during the first days.
Organs • Provision of two gas brooders or 2 radiant heaters During this period from one day old to 5 weeks of
of 1450 Kcal is advised for 1000 birds age, the bird is not able to adapt its feed consumption
Calcium • Temperature and relative humidity should be to feed energy level. To encourage good growth, we
Increase Reproductive uniform throughout the building recommend using a diet presented in crumb form, with
Muscles at prelay tract an adequate concentration of protein and energy from 0
The distribution behaviour of chicks is the best indicator
of temperature to 28 days in temperate climates, and from 0 to 35 days
in hot climates (in both conditions until the standard
Fat • On floor system, the distribution of chicks in each bodyweight is reached).
pen or throughout the building will help you to
manage the correct temperature of the house. As with a mash diet diet, fine particles <0.5mm must
___________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________
Medullary bone ___
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 • If the chicks crowd together under the brooder -> be below 13% to ensure feed palatability and have
Weeks in age temperature is too low. a maximum of 13% coarse particles to avoid feed
• If the chicks are close to the surroundings -> the selection. If standard bodyweight is not achieved at 28
temperature is too high or 35 days, keep using the starter diet for a maximum
of 2 further weeks.
Equipment and environment Distribution behaviour according to temperature
Floor Cages Below are some key-points to provide day old chicks
Age (weeks) 0 – 2 2 – 5 0 – 3 3 – 5
with a good start.
Ventilation Minimum per hour / kg 0,7 m³ 0,7 m³ 0,7 m³ 0,7 m³
Stocking densities Birds / m² 30 20 80 45
Key points:
cm² / Bird 125 220
Water supply Chicks / Chick drinker 75 80 (1) • Flush the water lines prior to arrival, and make sure
Birds / drinker 75 75 that no disinfectant is left in the water lines when
Birds / nipple 10 10 10 (2) 10 (2) Too cold Too warm Draught Ideal
the chicks arrive.
Feed supply Birds / Starting pan 50 (3)
cm of trough feeders 4 4 2 4 • Make sure that the nipples and round drinkers are
LIGHTING PROGRAMME TO ENCOURAGE on the correct height - nipples at chick eye level
Birds / Round feeder 35 35
F E E D I N TA K E A N D G R O W T H and round drinkers on the floor.
(1): Place one additional drinker per cage for the first week
(2): Make sure that all the birds have access to at least 2 nipples
Lighting programme according to age and
(3): Spread sheets of paper over the cage bottom to last for 7 days, remove the top sheet every day rearing housing system
Notes: Rearing in dark or semi dark house Rearing in hot climate (open houses)
• The removal of the supplementary starter drinkers • The drinkers should be cleaned daily for the first Light duration Light intensity Light duration Light intensity
should be done gradually, making sure that the 2 weeks. From the third week they should be 1 – 3 days 23 hours 20 – 40 lux 23 hours 40 lux
4 – 7 days 22 hours 15 – 30 lux 22 hours 40 lux
chicks have acquired the habit of using the regular cleaned each week.
8 – 14 days 20 hours 10 – 20 lux 20 hours 40 lux
drinkers. • Check that all the birds, even the smaller ones 15 – 21 days 18 hours 5 – 10 lux 19 hours 40 lux
• It is useful to monitor water consumption to maintain have access to feed and water 22 – 28 days 16 hours 5 – 10 lux 18 hours 40 lux
litter quality. It is necessary to avoid water spillage, • It is important to use 360° nipples, especially for 29 – 35 days 14 hours 5 – 10 lux 17 hours 40 lux
by carefully regulating the drinkers or the nipples. infra-red beak treated birds

4 ISA - Management Guide - Cage Production Systems ISA - Management Guide - Cage Production Systems 5
 FEEDING TECHNIQUE A GOOD FOLLOW UP WITH
• Put paper under the nipples to attract the chicks FEEDING PROGRAMME
and extra feed over the chick paper or paper trays. The feeding techniques used between 4 and 16 weeks A W E E K LY C H E C K O F T H E
• Check the nipples / round drinkers to ensure the The dietary range set out for the rearing period can be are designed to: DEVELOPMENT
water supply is sufficient. When nipples are used adapted to the actual development of the frame and • avoid the accumulation of fine particle residues A weekly control of the growth is a must to check the
the chicks must see the water drop on the nipple. bodyweight of the pullets. • encourage crop development by having a rapid real evolution of the flock: the earlier you know the
• The feed should be distributed when the chicks feed consumption earlier you can correct.
have drunk enough water to restore their body fluid
(about 2 hours after being placed in the brooding S TA RT E R DIET
THE B U I L D U P O F F I N E PA RT I C L E R E S I D U E S TARGETS IN REARING:
pens), especially when the birds have travelled for
Recommended from one day old until 4 weeks of age • To produce a uniform flock with a bodyweight in
a long time Birds are by nature grain eaters. They always start by
and can be extended to 5 or 6 weeks to secure the frame accordance with the target age at sexual maturity
In hot climate environments, flush the line just before development. Frame development occurs mainly during eating the larger particles and leave the finer ones. The
accumulation of fine particles in the feeding system leads
• To obtain the correct bodyweight at 4 weeks to
chicks arrived to provide them fresh water the first 8 weeks of the rearing period. secure frame development
to under-consumption. Therefore, it is essential that the
All these recommendations will help to: feeders are emptied every day. This rule applies equally
• To achieve steady growth between 4 and 16 weeks
GROWER DIET with a good development of the digestive tract
• Get a good start and a low mortality level during to pullets and layers.
the first 2 weeks TARGETS IN PRODUCTION:
Recommended from 4 weeks until 10 weeks of age and
• A good frame and immune system can be extended to 11 or 12 weeks of age in order to RAPID F E E D I N TA K E • To make sure that between 5% lay and peak of
• A good uniformity from the start secure growth. As the rearing period objective is also production the bodyweight increase is at least 300
to develop the digestive tract, this grower diet, which The crop is a storage organ. It allows the bird to eat g for brown layers and 200 g for white layers. For
is high in energy content should not be given after 12 enough feed in the evening to satisfy its energy needs these reasons it is essential to exercise control over
weeks of age. The risk of using too much high energy throughout the night. The increase in consumption at bodyweight on a weekly basis from 0 to 30 weeks
F R O M 4 T O 16 W E E K S - start of lay depends on the development of the crop of age, and after that, at least once every month.
content feed is the reduction of the development of the
BUILDING THE POTENTIAL OF digestive tract and the feed intake at the start of lay. and on the feeding behaviour acquired during rearing • Controlling the quantity of feed distributed will
T H E F U T U R E L AY E R Rapid feed consumption during rearing leads to the
not on it's own ensure good growth because the
The distribution of a developer diet until 16 weeks requirements vary according to:
After a good start, the objective of the 4-16 week period is development of the crop. The speed of feed consumption
of age will help the development of the crop capacity
to prepare the birds for egg production with the best depends on when it is fed and on the form in which it - the energy level of the diet
because of a lower energy level than grower feed which
development of: is slightly lower than the pre-lay or layer feed. is offered. - the house temperature
• the frame
• the bodyweight In order to secure the development of the medullary - the health status of the flock
bone which acts as a reservoir of available calcium for FEEDING T I M E S A N D R A P I D F E E D I N TA K E
• the uniformity
• the digestive tract. eggshell formation, we advise the use of a pre lay feed
Birds naturally eat more in the early morning, late METHOD OF WEIGHING
from the beginning of 17 weeks of age until the first
These objectives can be achieved by providing: afternoon and in the evening. For that reason the feeders
eggs appear. The time of weighing should be fixed and be on the same
should be empty in the middle of the day.
• a correct stocking density and housing conditions day of the week and at the same time, after feeding.
• a lighting programme adapted to rearing conditions The details of the specifications for each of those diets We advise carrying out individual weighing. A practical
To encourage rapid consumption, we recommend that
• beak trimming performed by trained people are explained in a following section. the complete daily ration is given approx 2 to 3 hours method is to use weighing sheets, which allow us to
• good management of the feeding programme and before the lights are switched off. An appropriate time put the weights straight into a histogram. This shows
feeding techniques of feeding should be chosen so that 50% of the feed is at glance the weight distribution within the population.
• good bio - security eaten the following morning. At "lights on", because
the digestive system is empty, the birds will eat up Example of a weighing sheet
HOUSING AND EQUIPMENT the finer particles better. This feeding routine can be Weighing sheet
House: Date: / / Age:
started between 4 and 8 weeks according to the feeding Time of day: Weigh objective:
Floor Cages 975 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20
equipment used. The length of time, during which the 1000 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20
Age (wks) 5 – 10 10 – 17 5 – 10 10 – 17 1025 x 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 1025
Minimum per
feeders are empty, should be gradually increased, so that 1050 x 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 1050
1075 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20
Ventilation 4 m³ 4 m³ 4 m³ 4 m³ by around 10-12 weeks of age the feeders are empty 1100 x x x 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 3300
hour / kg 1125 x x x x x x x 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 6750
for a minimum of 2 to 3 hours per day. It is, however, 1150 x x x x x x x 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 6900
Stocking densities Birds / m² 15 10 15 10 1175 x x x x x x x 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 7050
Birds / m² (hot possible depending on the feeding equipment being used 1200 x x x x x x 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 6000
1225 x x x x x x x x 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 9800
12 9 12 9 to give either a single feed distribution on evening, or 1250 x x x x x x x x x x x x x x 15 16 17 18 19 20 17500
climate) 1275 x x x x x x x x x x x x x 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 16575
cm² / Bird 220 350 two 2 distributions, provided that the feeding periods 1300 x x x x x x x x x x x x 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 15600
1325 x x x x x x x x x 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 11925
Water supply Birds / drinker 100 100 are kept short. 1350 x x x x x x x x x x x x x 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 17550
1375 x x x x x x 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 8250
Birds/drinker 1400 x 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 1400
75 75 1425 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20
(hot climate) Weekly bird weighing is essential, so that the appropriate 1450 x x 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 2900
1475 x x 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 2950
Birds / nipple 9 8 10 (1) 10 (1) quantity of feed to be distributed can be calculated. 1500 x 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 1500
1525 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20
Feed supply cm of trough feeders 5 7 4 6 1550 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20
Birds / Round feeder 25 23 25 23 Gizzard development can be encouraged by a good 138025
feed regime and the use of insoluble grit. You will NUMBER OF SUBJECTS: 109
(1): Make sure that all the birds have access to at least 2 nipples AVERAGE BODYWEIGHT: 1266
find more details on these points in the “Nutrition in HOMOGENEITY: +10% limit at: 1393 g -10% lilmit at: 1140 g

rearing” ISA technical bulletin. 17 bodyweights out of objective range 92 bodyweights have reached objective 84,40% homogeneity

6 ISA - Management Guide - Cage Production Systems ISA - Management Guide - Cage Production Systems 7
 SAMPLING TECHNIQUE
For floor rearing situations, make a lightweight wire
netting pen, and then walk into the middle of the flock
and surround a group of birds. Individually weigh all
the birds in that pen.
A sample with a minimum of 100 birds gives a good
estimate of mean bodyweight and uniformity. However,
if the flock is divided into separate pens, it is necessary
to take a sample of 50 birds from each pen and then to
calculate the overall mean.
When rearing in cages, weigh all the birds from 5 or 6
cages, chosen at random in different parts of the poultry
house, to make up a sample. Marking the cages in order
to check the same birds every time is recommended to
get a more accurate idea of BW evolution.
• Group weighing between 0 and 4 weeks of age,
as uniformity is very difficult to measure during
this period
• Weekly individual weighing from 4 till 30 weeks
of age
• From 30 weeks of age, once a month at least
UNIFORMITY
The quality of a flock is judged, as much as anything
else, by its uniformity. A batch is uniform when all the
weights within the sample fall between plus or minus
20% of the average or, when 80% of the weights are
within + 10 and -10% of the average.
Within the limits of plus or minus 20% of the average,
the smallest and the heaviest pullets have an equivalent
development stage. Only those birds which are too
small should be culled. If uniformity is outside the target
range, it is necessary to identify the causes and to check:
• stocking density, feeders and drinkers availability
• the speed of the feed chain
• the quality of beak trimming
• the vaccination status
• for disease and parasitism
In all cases underweight birds should be identified and
placed in a separate pen or culled by eight weeks of
age at the latest. In cages, we recommend that the
lightest birds are sorted out frequently from six weeks
and put together in separate cages for an easier follow
up, and to check if the number of birds per cage is for
all cages the same.
Example of nor<<mal distribution of body weights in a flock
Subject #
80% of the sample
1200 1250 1300 1350 1400 1450 1500 1550 1600
(-10%) (+10%)
8 ISA - Management Guide - Cage Production Systems
BEAK T R I M M I N G : A D E L I C AT E
O P E R AT I O N
This operation is normally carried out for two main
reasons:
• to prevent feather pecking and cannibalism
• to reduce feed wastage
Beak trimming is a delicate operation and only specially
trained personnel should perform it. If improperly done,
it may result in birds having difficulty eating and drinking
and lead to a non-uniform flock as a consequence.
AGE OF BEAK TRIMMING
In addition to technical recommendations, any local
codes and regulations concerned with animal welfare
should be observed.
The decision about the age of beak trimming depends
mostly on the housing system and local regulations:
• In cage productions, in dark houses, when the
intensity of artificial light is low, beaks should be
trimmed at one day-old or at 7 to 10 days.
• Production in open-sided houses, giving exposure to
high natural light intensity, one single beak tipping
at 7 to 10 days will not prevent pecking entirely.
Under these conditions, beak trimming should be
carried out twice: a light tipping at 10 days and
then a second operation between 8 and 10 weeks
of age, where local regulations allow it.
BEAK TRIMMING / T R E AT M E N T AT D AY O L D
The biggest advantage of beak trimming / treatment at one
day old in the hatchery, before the delivery of the chicks, is
that it is convenient and has low costs. It should be properly
performed to avoid start up problems and to minimize excessive
beak growth later.
The beak of the chick trimmed or treated at one day old is still
sensitive; to ensure an easy access to drinking water in the
rearing farm, it is important to use sideways activated nipples,
nipple drinkers with cups and / or starting mini drinkers. Another
point to watch is the water pressure in the nipples - if it is too
high the chicks will not drink properly.
Main methods utilised for beak trim birds at one day old are:
• Robotic beak trimming machine
• Infra-red technique
BEAK T R I M M I N G AT 7 - 10 D AY S
Early precision beak trimming at 7-10 days has the
advantage that when carried out properly, there is a
minimal effect on bodyweight development. Also it is
not necessary in most circumstances to beak trim the
birds a second time in the rearing period.
1650 1700 1750 1800 1850 1900
Weight in grams
METHOD
Carefully choose the correct
diameter hole on the beak-tipping
machine, so as to cut the beak at
least 2 mm from the nostrils.
• Hold the chick in one hand,
with the thumb behind the head, holding the head
firmly in position resting the beak on the forefinger
• Move the chick’s beak upwards at an angle of 15º
above horizontal and cauterize the reinforced side
edges of the beak, to avoid unequal re-growth of
the 2 mandibles.
• Cauterization contact time should be between 2
and 2.5 seconds
• Check the temperature of the blade (600º - 650º
C), for each operator and machine every hour
BEAK T R I M M I N G AT 8 – 10 WEEKS
If local regulations allow it, a late beak trimming is
recommended under certain conditions, especially when
light intensity cannot be controlled (open-sided houses).
The advantage of this method is that a very precise beak
trimming can be carried out. The main disadvantage
is that when it is improperly done, it can take too long
for the birds to regain standard bodyweight.
METHOD
• Both mandibles should be
cut separately, inserting a
finger between them is the
preferred technique
• Cut the beak perpendicularly
at a right angle to its
long axis, so that after
cauterization about half of the length of the beak
between the tip and nostrils is left. Upper and lower
beak should have the same length after being cut.
• Cauterize each mandible with care, particularly at
the sides of the beak, so as to round off the sides
of the beak and avoid lateral re-growth
• Check regularly the temperature of the blade (650º
- 750º C)
BEAK T R I M M I N G AT T R A N S F E R
A very late operation is not recommended since the
pullets are very close to maturity and will only have
a short time to recover to normal feed intake and
bodyweight. However, during transfer it is advisable
to re-check the beaks and, if necessary, to touch up
the beaks to correct the eventual irregularities,if it is
allowed by local welfare regulations.
BEFORE B E A K T R I M M I N G : AT T E N T I O N P O I N T S :
• Do not beak trim birds if the flock is not in good
health or if it is suffering from vaccine reactions
• Add vitamin K to the drinking water 48 hours prior
to trimming and after to prevent haemorrhages
• Check the equipment and make sure that the
trimming blade has the right temperature to
ISA - Management Guide - Cage Production Systems
cauterize but not so high to form a blister on the
beak later
DURING B E A K T R I M M I N G : AT T E N T I O N P O I N T S :
• The operator should be seated comfortably so that
each beak is cut in the same manner
• Do not rush the process: too high a rate (number
of birds/minute) could lead to a higher chance of
errors and poor uniformity.
• Change blades when required: maximum
recommended usage for a blade is 5.000 birds.
• Make sure the tongue of the bird does not get
burned
AFTER B E A K T R I M M I N G : AT T E N T I O N P O I N T S
• Increase the water level in the drinkers and decrease
the water pressure in the pipes to make it easy for
the birds to drink
• Make sure that the depth of the feed is adequate,
do not empty the feeders for a week after beak
trimming
Beak trimming is a very delicate operation and it is
important enough to be done correctly.Improper beak
trimming can damage bird liveability and uniformity
and consequently affect negatively the overall flock
performances.
GENERAL PRINCIPLES OF THE
LIGHTING PROGRAMMES IN
REARING PERIOD
Chickens are sensitive to changes in the duration of
illumination, and this will influence the age of sexual
maturity. In addition, feed consumption is greatly
influenced by the duration of day length. Lighting
programmes have, therefore, different objectives.
During rearing, they allow us to encourage growth and
to control the birds' sexual maturity. For this reason, we
consider lighting programmes to be essential to achieve;
• the recommended bodyweight at 5% lay
• in order to obtain an egg weight which conforms
to the target from start of lay
• to achieve high overall production
LIGHTING PROGRAMME AND GROWTH:
In addition to the influence on growth, the lighting
programme plays a determinant role for 3 essential
reasons:
• progressive growth of the digestive system
• gradual adaptation to a body clock (above all,
anticipation of a dark period).
• lack of night time energy supply when dark periods
are too long
Observations of the feeding and drinking behaviour
show a first peak of feed intake in the 2 to 3 hours that
precede a dark period, and a second peak shortly after
lights come on. The crop is used during these peaks of
consumption as a storage organ.
9
The introduction of a dark period from the start of the
rearing period is important to progressively develop
the crop capacity, which plays the role of feed reserve.
However the amount of feed stocked remains insufficient
for the nocturnal energy needs.
Buyse (1993) found that with pullets subjected to a
10-hour dark period, the amount of feed stored in the
digestive tract was only 75% of the energy needs for
those 10 hours. Other authors have found similar results.
Thus the feeding behaviour of poultry is an attempt
to satisfy night time energy needs. It is reasonable to
suppose that the night energy deficit is proportional to
the length of the dark period.
LIGHT D U R AT I O N A N D G R O W T H :
A rapid decrease in day length is used to slow the growth
of birds. Conversely any increase in light duration will
favour growth.
The trial (24th Random Sample Test- Eickelborn) shows
clearly the relation - Daylength/Feed intake/Growth.
Influence of a decreasing light pattern on growth.
Age Light duration (hours/day)
4 – 7 days 20 20
2nd week 16 16
3rd week 12 15
4th week 8 14.5
5th week 8 14
6th week 8 13.5
7th week 8 13
8th week 8 12.5
Weight at 56 days (g) 678 731 (+ 8%)
24th. R.S.T. Eikelborn
The duration of light must be taken into account when
planning lighting programmes ,while bearing in mind
that the objective is not to break records for growth
but to follow the established growth curve.
CONTROL O F S E X U A L M AT U R I T Y
The purpose of lighting programmes is to control the age
at point of lay and above all to avoid the influence of the
variations in natural day length. Do not underestimate
the effect of even the slightest variations in day length.
ROLE OF BODYWEIGHT
• Photo stimulation is not necessary to stimulate
production even when the pullets are reared under
very short day lengths.
• A trial carried out by Lewis (1996) shows that with
a day length greater or equal to 10 hours, the age
at 50% lay does not vary, or only a little. On the
other hand, a day length kept at 8 hours appears
to delay sexual maturity by one week. This delay
of maturity with 8 hours at the plateau is explained
by the lower growth obtained compared to 10 or
more hours of lighting programme.
• These observations are confirmed in latitudes close
10 ISA - Management Guide - Cage Production Systems
to the Equator. With very little change in day The speed of decrease of light duration can be slowed
length, we have seen that sexual maturity is mainly LIGHTINGPROGRAMME IN down if growth performance is not as expected. The
activated by obtaining adequate bodyweight. DARK HOUSES 10 hours plateau of light could be started from 8 or
The higher the latitude is the higher the differences in We consider a dark house to be a building in which the 10 weeks of age without any major delay in maturity.
light penetrating from all outside sources produces an The delay of sexual maturity being compensated for by
sexual maturity between summer and winter flocks are.
intensity of less than 0.5 lux, at above 20° latitude. the better growth observed with longer light duration.
In these buildings one should use the programme for
LIGHT S T I M U L AT I O N dark houses.
O F L I G H T AT T H E P L AT E A U A N D
D U R AT I O N
• The variation of light duration greatly influences GROWTH PERFORMANCES
sexual maturity. Under certain conditions, we can With this level of light intensity coming from outside,
there is little interference with the artificial lighting
observe a response to a light stimulation from 6 As described previously, it is always preferable to
weeks of age. However, the more sensitive period programme. The birds react very well to any variation encourage growth than encourage sexual maturity.
of light duration during the rearing period.
is between 10 and 12 weeks of age. • In order to compensate for the lack of growth which
• According to the programme being used, the age could be observed during the rearing period in some
at 50% can vary by up to 6 weeks. LIGHT D U R AT I O N D U R I N G T H E F I R S T W E E K S specific conditions or during the hot season of the
Light stimulation will change the bird`s weight at sexual year, it could be better to maintain 12 hours light
maturity, its adult weight and as a consequence, the egg In order to control and maximize the growth of the at the plateau instead of 10 hours. As showed by
pullets during the first weeks we recommend using a
weight, which is directly related to the bodyweight of Lewis (1996), the light length greater or equal to
the bird at first egg. slow step down lighting programme. 10 hours doesn’t significantly modify the age at
This slow step down lighting programme could be 50% of production.
Bird weight at sexual maturity will be 75 g lower when • If the market demand is for high average egg size,
light stimulation is advanced one week. Egg numbers adapted to the growth performance or sexual maturity
a very long step down lighting programme will
will be greater but egg weight will be reduced by about expected.
encourage the growth and will delay maturity. The
1 g. Total egg mass produced does not seem to be addition of these two factors will lead to an increase
affected by reasonable variations in the age of sexual LIGHT D U R AT I O N A N D G R O W T H in the average egg weight through the increase of
maturity (Lewis 1997).
PERFORMANCES bodyweight and delay of maturity.
For this reason, it is preferable to determine the time of From 6 to 15 weeks, in all latitudes and irrespective of
The normal or classic step down lighting programme is a
light stimulation according to bodyweight rather than the type of poultry house, it is very important that the
light programme starting from 23 hours the first 3 days
the of age of the bird. day length never increases.
after arrival, to a plateau of light of 10 hours after 43
days. During this period, the light duration is decreased
Influence of bird weight at 127 days upon the performance
by steps of about 2 hours per week during 6 weeks. L I G H T S T I M U L AT I O N A C C O R D I N G T O B O D Y
from 27 to 47 weeks. WEIGHT
Bird weight Age at 50% Rate of lay Egg weight F.C.R. Note: a cyclical programme could be applied for the
(days) (g) first two weeks (4hours of light/2 hours of dark,
1535 g 141 91.3 60.50 a 2.018 repeated 4 times to equal 24 hours) and then followed As the bodyweight plays a major role in the
1585 g 141 92.1 60.65 a 2.014 determination of the egg weight profile during the
a recommended lighting programme, so 18 hours of
1620 g 143 91.0 61.80 b 2.012
light on the third week) whole laying period, the light stimulation has to be
1665 g 142 91.0 61.65 b 2.027
done according to the bodyweight observed. The
Bougon 1996 Isabrown bodyweight references are:
• 1250 to 1300 g for the Brown egg layers
LIGHT INTENSITY IN REARING
• 1100 to 1150 g for the White egg layers
Little information is available. However some work
has shown that light intensity can be very low. Morris
(1996) showed that an intensity greater than 1 lux did
not modify sexual maturity.
Ideal light intensity will be determined in practice by
the following needs:
• Light required to inspect the birds well.
• The degree of darkness of the building (light leaking
in)
• The intensity to be used during laying period.
Lighting programmes have to be adapted to the rearing
facilities (dark or open house systems), to the conditions
of production, to the climate and to the egg weight
profile demanded by the market.
ISA - Management Guide - Cage Production Systems 11
 In order to get an efficient light stimulation, the day
length increase has to be done in the morning.
For rearing in dark house systems and production in an
open house system, it is necessary to maintain a high
light intensity throughout all the rearing period in order
to avoid a sudden increase of light intensity.
The lighting programmes suggested below are only
guides. They have to be adapted to the real circumstances
of the rearing farm and according to performances
previously obtained.
We consider essential to achieve the recommended
bodyweight at light stimulation and at 5% lay, in order
to obtain an egg weight which conforms to the target,
and to achieve high overall production.
LIGHTING PROGRAMME IN
H O T C L I M AT E H O U S E S
B E T W E E N L AT I T U D E S 20° N O RT H A N D
20° S O U T H
In tropical and subtropical countries, the layers are often
subjected to severe heat stress. This heat stress can
occur during long periods of high tropical or subtropical
climatic conditions. The lower feed intake noticed during
these periods is the result of the bird’s reduced ability
to lose heat.
The lower growth rates during rearing and the reduced
production during lay are only consequences of the
reduction in feed consumption when the birds are
incapable of regulating their internal body temperature.
HIGH T E M P E R AT U R E A N D G R O W T H
The growth is mainly affected after 6 weeks of age,
when the birds approach full plumage.
Growth in rearing according to temperature
GROWTH IN REARING ACCORDING TO TEMPERATURE
1600
1400
1 159
1200
1000
1 025
800
626
600
575
400
250
200
241
0 Night time
0 20 40 60 80 100
18° C 30° C
Leeson S., and J.D. Summers - 1997
The deterioration of the growth rate leads to a delay
in sexual maturity. Even without any light stimulation,
the pullets start production when they reach their ideal
bodyweight. The later this bodyweight is achieved, the
later the start of production.
12 ISA - Management Guide - Cage Production Systems
Therefore, it is essential in these conditions to encourage REARING DURING A PERIOD OF DECREASING
growth during all the whole rearing period, starting with: LIGHTING PROGRAMMES FOR
D AY L E N G T H
• Good brooding conditions in order to get the highest SEMI-DARK HOUSES
To reduce the delay in sexual maturity induced by the
possible bodyweight and uniformity at 5 weeks Before defining the lighting programme to be used
decreasing day length, we recommend:
of age during the rearing and production period, it is essential
• As the growth rate is related to light duration, to consider the following points: • starting light stimulation when the bodyweight is
we advise the use of a slow step down lighting on target by increasing the day length period by:
• The type of building to be used in rearing and laying:
programme which will help to boost feed dark houses, semi-dark houses or open houses - 2 hours in the morning for brown egg layers
consumption and growth. • Location: the duration of natural day length
• The reduction of light duration in the evening will depends on the latitude, which in turn, determines - 1 hour in the morning for white egg layers
allow the birds to eat early in the morning, during sunrise and sunset times throughout the year • then adding 1 hour per week in order to get 15
the cool part of the day and help the bird to lose • Hatch date: flocks hatched “on season” (increasing
hours of light at 50% production
the heat generated by digestion before the hot day length) tend to be earlier into production than
part of the day. flocks hatched in the “off season” (decreasing day REARING DURING A PERIOD OF INCREASING
• After 6 weeks, giving the feed early in the afternoon length). D AY L E N G T H
will encourage consumption of large particle sizes • Sexual maturity is usually obtained in the same
(low energy needed) before the lighting is turned season as the previous flocks. To avoid a premature early sexual maturity, which could
off. Fine particles will be easily eaten in the morning. lead to poorer overall performances (in egg number,
This meal feeding will encourage the development egg size, shell quality and liveability), we recommend:
DEFINITION OF BUILDING TYPES
of the digestive tract and help the increase of feed
• reaching a plateau of constant light equal to the
consumption at start of lay. We consider a dark poultry house to be a building in natural day length to which the pullets will be
It is a priority to encourage growth instead of sexual which the light penetrating from outside, through all exposed at the planned age of light stimulation
maturity. kinds of openings, produces an intensity of less than 0.5 • starting light stimulation when the bodyweight is
• A bodyweight which is too low at start of lay will lux. That means that houses not completely light-proof, on target by increasing the day length period by 1
lead to post peak dips, risks of high mortality in should be considered as semi-dark if light leakage is hour in the morning (brown an white egg layers)
producing an intensity of above 0.5 lux. • then adding 1 hour per week
production with some prolapse, and poor quality
and persistency later on in production. Even low light intensity tends to affect bird performance. Regarding light stimulation it is very important to keep
• Excessive early light stimulation will lead to post It has been shown that light as dim as 0.05 lux provided in mind the following points:
peak dips. No light stimulation is necessary before 3 hours before and 3 hours after an 8-hour light period
• the timing of light stimulation should always be
2% of production. An increase of day length from can advance maturity by about a week compared with
based on bodyweight, not on age
2% of lay can be done in the morning to boost pullets held on 8 hours (Lewis, 1999). It is therefore • effective stimulation is always difficult when the
feed consumption during the cooler part of the day. necessary, for a semi-dark house, to adapt the lighting natural day length is near its longest
Please find herewith a lighting programme for rearing in hot program to the natural day length. • to get an efficient light stimulation we advise adding
climate (Between Latitudes 20° north and 20° south). It is light in the morning instead of in the evening.
only a guide that could be adapted to local conditions. REARING IN SEMI-DARK HOUSES
Weeks 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14
Total light 24 23 22 21 20 19 18 17 16 15 14 13 12 12 Complete control of sexual maturity is difficult to achieve
LIGHT ON 6:00 PM 7:00 PM 8:00 PM 9:00 PM 10:00 PM 11:00 PM 12:00 AM 1:00 AM 2:00 AM 3:00 AM 4:00 AM 5:00 AM 6:00 AM 6:00 AM
LIGHT OFF 6:00 PM 6:00 PM 6:00 PM 6:00 PM 6:00 PM 6:00 PM 6:00 PM 6:00 PM 6:00 PM 6:00 PM 6:00 PM 6:00 PM 6:00 PM 6:00 PM in this type of building since the seasonal fluctuations
24
23 of day length still interfere with sexual development as
22
21 mentioned above. Sexual maturity usually observed in
20
19
the flocks coming from this type of rearing house at the
18
17
same season has to be taken into account.
16
15
1 416 14 The lighting schedules used should take into account
13
12 NATURAL DAYLENGTH
the natural day length at the moment of transfer in
11
1 242 10 order to get an effective photo stimulation. Total light
9
8 duration must never be shorter than the longest natural
7
6
day in the period between 8 weeks of age and light
5
4
stimulation to avoid any increase of the light duration
3
2 before 14 weeks of age.
1
0
Hour of
the day
120 140 160
Lighting time
Optional night time
Note: in very difficult conditions, a plateau of 13 hours
light, with lights on at 5 a.m. will give a better growth.
We consider essential to achieve the recommended
bodyweight at light stimulation and at 5% lay, in order
to obtain an egg weight which conforms to the target
from start of lay, and to achieve high overall production.
ISA - Management Guide - Cage Production Systems 13
 P RO D UC T I O N PERIOD
ADAPTING R E A R I N G P R O G R A M M E S T O P R O D U C T I O N FA C I L I T I E S LIGHTING AS A TOOL FOR ENCOURAGING
A R A P I D A D A P TAT I O N T O A N E W
TRANSFER A N D S TA RT O F L AY ENVIRONMENT
PRODUCTION IN N AT U R A L LY L I T HOUSES
Transferring the birds from a semi-dark rearing house to a windowed house can bring about an advanced sexual I mmediately after the birds arrive at the laying unit,
maturity. Under these conditions, there is an increased risk of having light birds at the point light intensity is increased. The transfer from the rearing farm to the laying facilities it is very important to put into practice the following
is a major stress, accompanied by changes in environment techniques to help the birds adapt to the new
To have an effective lighting programme and to reduce this risk, in these situations we recommend working with a
(temperature, humidity…) and equipment. It should be environment, particularly to cages and nipple systems.
light intensity of 40 lux as a minimum in rearing. carried out as fast as possible, ideally being completed
• Apply 22 hours of light the first day
within a day. Be sure the production house is clean,
Lighting programme recommendation according to daylength at 15 weeks • Light duration should be decided according to what
disinfected and temperature is minimum 17°C.
has been used during rearing
Age and/or weight Duration of light at 15 weeks (hours)
10 11 12 13 w Then, between transfer and the peak of production, a • Increase the light intensity for 4 to 7 days to help
1 - 3 days 23 23 23 23 23 rapid increase in feed intake is necessary since the bird the birds in the darkest cages to find nipples.
4 - 7 days 22 22 22 22 22 has to cover: • Then reduce light intensity gradually while ensuring
8 - 14 days 20 20 20 20 20 that normal water intake continues. A high light
15 - 21 days 18 18 18 18 18 • its requirements to grow to the adult bodyweight intensity for longer than 7 days can increase the
22 - 28 days 16 16 16 16 16 • its requirements to achieve peak of production
29 - 35 days 14 14 14 14 15 risks of pecking
• its requirements to get a rapid egg weight increase
36 - 42 days 12 13 13 13.30 14
43 - 49 days 11 12 12.30 13 14 ENCOURAGING WAT E R C O N S U M P T I O N
Decreasing daylengths: AGE OF TRANSFER
after 49 days 10 NL NL NL NL
Birds can become dehydrated during transfer. The
at bodyweight reference (1) 12 13 14 15 16 We advise transferring the birds at 16 weeks, maybe
at BW R + 1 week 13 14 14.30 15.30 16.30 water loss rate ranges between 0.3% and 0.5% per
even at 15 weeks, but never after 17 weeks.
at BW R + 2 weeks 13.30 14.30 15 16 16.30 hour according to atmospheric conditions.
Increasing daylengths:
Because of the stress to which birds are subjected during • Pullets should drink before feeding: the absence of
after 49 days 10 11 12 13 14
at bodyweight reference (1) 11 12 13 14 15
transfer and immediately afterwards: feed helps them find the nipple drinkers more easily
at BW R + 1 week 12 13 14 14.30 15.30 • It is extremely important that transfer is completed • Make sure that the water pipes have been rinsed
at BW R + 2 weeks 13 14 14.30 15 16 before pullets arrival
before the appearance of the first eggs: most
After + ½ hour per week in order to have between 15 h and 16 h 30 at 50% production • Wait for 3 or 4 hours before distributing feed and
development of reproductive organs (ovary and
oviduct) occurs during the 10 days prior to the check if drinking system is working properly
(1): Bodyweight reference is:
first egg. • If the pullets have not been reared on nipples,
For Brown egg layers between 1250 and 1300 g.
• We advice that vaccinations are given at least a decrease the pressure and allow some leakage of
For White egg layers between 1100 and 1150 g.
week before transfer, so as to obtain a good vaccine water during the first few days
response. • If nipples are planned for production, it is helpful
PRODUCTION I N A D A R K P O U LT RY H O U S E
• De-worming of the flock, if necessary, is best done to add at least one nipple for 200 birds to the other
The advice given above is just as applicable to dark poultry houses. It is worth noting that moving from a naturally in the last days before moving, depending on the drinking equipment used in rearing, as a “nipples
lit rearing house to a dark laying house slows down the sexual development of the chicken and causes a delay in the de worming product used. school”.
onset of lay. It is necessary to avoid this as far as possible and to have a light duration on entering the laying house • A late transfer or too long a transfer often leads • A daily water consumption control is of paramount
which is longer than the day length at the time of transfer, and to adjust the light intensity after transfer. to delayed start of lay and higher mortality and importance
We consider it essential to achieve the recommended bodyweight at light stimulation and at 5% lay, in order to obtain increases the risk of floor laying in non-cage
systems. FEEDING FOR PHYSIOLOGICAL NEEDS
an egg weight which conforms to the target from start of lay, and to achieve high overall production.
• About 2 weeks before the first egg is laid, the
POINTS O F AT T E N T I O N AT L O A D I N G A N D
medullary bone, which acts as a reservoir of calcium
T R A N S P O RT for eggshell formation, develops. Therefore a
The following rules should minimise stress at handling pre-lay diet needs to be used, containing enough
of the birds at loading and during later transport: calcium and phosphorus, for this bone formation.
This diet should be switched to a layer diet as
• The birds should have an empty digestive tract soon as production reaches 2% to avoid any
at the moment of loading, but they must have demineralization.
access to fresh drinking water up to the time of • Then, an early lay feed with a high content of
being loaded. amino acids (about 7% higher than after peak
• Choose the best time for transport during the day diet) should be used. This feed needs to satisfy
or night, depending on the weather circumstances. requirements for early production, growth and
• Crates or containers, equipment, trucks etc. must
reproductive development.
be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected
• Make sure that air can circulate freely around the
crates, but protect pullets from direct air flow. ENCOURAGING FEED CONSUMPTION
Containers or crates should not be overloaded,
From the start of lay to the peak of production, feed
particularly in hot weather on long distance hauls.
consumption should increase by about 40% to allow
• Avoid unnecessary stops during transit of the birds.

14 ISA - Management Guide - Cage Production Systems ISA - Management Guide - Cage Production Systems 15
the birds to meet their requirements for egg production
and growth.
To encourage bird appetite and feed intake, the following
advice should be put into practice:
• Maintain the temperature at point of lay as close
as possible to the temperature to which the birds
became acclimatised during rearing. Growth at the
point of lay is reduced above 24°C, and is extremely
low above 28°C.
• Minimize house temperature variations and avoid
draughts
• Use an adapted light duration, achieving 15 hours
of light at 50% of production
• Providing 1hour 30 minutes to 2 hours of
supplementary light in the middle of the dark
period will help to attain the correct bodyweight by
allowing an extra feed intake (“midnight feeding”).
• Limit the number of feed distributions according
to equipment to avoid selective feeding and
competition for large particles which could lead
to lack of uniformity.
• Adapt the feeding times as to achieve 60% of feed
consumed in the last 6 hours of the day and to
have empty feeders for 2 to 3 hours in the middle
of the day. This technique avoids a build up of
fine particles and its consequent negative effect
on feed intake.
• Use a layer feed with the correct grist (80% of
particles between 0.5 and 3.2 of diameter)
M O N I T O R I N G E N V I R O N M E N TA L A N D
P R O D U C T I O N PA R A M E T E R S
A close control of the following parameters will help
you to check the real evolution of the flock during this
critical period for the future performances:
• Feed consumption (daily)
• Water consumption (daily) and water/feed ratio
• Temperature (min-max) and relative humidity (daily)
• Evolution of bodyweight (weekly until peak of lay),
by weighing the birds up to 35 weeks of age
• Evolution of egg weight (daily for the first weeks
of lay)
GENERAL PRINCIPLES OF
LIGHTING PROGRAMMES
DURING THE PRODUCTION
PERIOD
In production as well as in rearing, the lighting programme
greatly influences feed consumption. In addition, during
all its life, a chicken remains sensitive to changes in the
duration of illumination.
The objective of the lighting programmes during the
production period is:
• to encourage growth at start of lay
• to counteract the harmful effects of decreases in
16 ISA - Management Guide - Cage Production Systems
natural day length
• to control the liveability through the light intensity
management
• to improve eggshell quality
Other lighting programmes can also be introduced
during the production period to adapt the egg weight
to market demand, to improve eggshell quality or to
control feed intake for some breeds.
CHICKENS’ SENSIBILITY TO CHANGES IN
I L L U M I N AT I O N
The lighting programme in production should be a
continuation of the lighting programme used during
the rearing period. We have to make sure that the
light duration in production house is at least as long
as the light duration the birds experienced the last day
before transfer.
As chickens remain sensitive to decrease of light duration
during the whole production cycle, the day length (the
interval between lights on and lights out) should not
be decreased during lay.
• A day length longer than 16 hours is not necessary
in dark buildings.
• In naturally lit or semi-dark buildings avoid a
decrease in the day length during lay by maintaining
a day length which is equal to that of the longest
natural day experienced, by making “lights on”
and lights out” coincide with the times of sunrise
and sunset
L I G H T I N G P R O G R A M M E S AT S TA RT O F L AY :
15 H O U R S AT 50% P R O D U C T I O N
From 17 weeks until peak of lay, feed consumption has
to increase by 40 to 50%, depending on rearing and
production systems, to cover requirements for growth,
peak of production and increase in egg weight at start
of lay:
• 300 grams of growth between 18 and 28 weeks of
age for brown layers and 200 grams for white layers.
• from 0 to daily egg mass produced at peak of
production
The amount of feed consumed is dependent on the day
length. A change in day length of one hour changes
feed intake by about 1.5 to 2 g.
We recommend adapting the increase of light duration
at start of lay to get at least 15 hours of light at 50%
production to encourage an increase in feed intake. For
all birds, production is determined by the amount of
food intake at the start of lay. The introduction of 1hour
and 30 minutes or 2hours of light, in the middle of the
dark period, could also be introduced at the same time.
1hour and 30minutes to 2 hours light in the middle
of the night
This technique encourages feed consumption and is increased. This could allow an increase in egg weight
growth at the start of lay. The introduction 1hour and by 2-3% but reduces the number of eggs laid by about
30 minutes or 2hours of light doesn’t interfere with the the same proportion.
normal lighting programme and should not be included
in the calculated day length. This programme can be In practice:
introduced at the start of lay (usually from 5% of lay) • They can be used any time throughout lay, including
and discontinued at any time without affecting the the early stages if it is economically useful to get
production. Stopping this mid night light should be a higher egg weight.
done gradually in order to allow the birds to adapt their • When starting to use one of these programmes,
feeding behaviour. The bird doesn’t perceive the end of we advise keeping the same total hours of light
this programme as a reduction of light duration. per day for several weeks.
• According to the pattern of feed consumption, a
The mid night light can modify the spread of the lay progressive increase of each dark period is possible.
of the flock. This reduction of total light duration doesn’t affect
the production but reduces activity (improves
Principle of the technique:
liveability) and saves feed.
• The lights should be switched on about 3 hours • These programmes assist in reducing red mite by
after "lights off". encouraging preening and delousing.
• It can be maintained during the whole laying period
or it can be discontinued at about 30 weeks of age The practical implementation: progressively according to age
if bodyweight and feed consumption are on target.
and consumption
• When it is discontinued at 30 weeks, it could be
Choice of cycle* 2 hours 3 hours 4 hours 6 hours
introduced again at 45 weeks of age to reduce
Age
the deterioration of the shell quality at end of lay, 1h15 L+ 2h L + 2h30 L + 3h45 L +
From 5% of lay
allowing the birds to consume limestone (Calcium) 0h45 N 1h N 1h30 N 2h15 N
during the shell formation. Length of light 15 hours 16 hours 15 hours 15 hours
• In a hot climate or during a heat wave, lighting • The reduction of light duration must be done
during the middle of the night reduces the negative progressively according to the water and feed
effects of heat by encouraging feed intake during consumption observed. It is possible to reduce
cooler conditions. total light duration to 9 hours in a progressive way.
• We advise a feed distribution just after the lights • If feed consumption decreases too much and lasts
turned on or just before lights turned off in the several days after a change of pattern, then go back
evening.
to the previous lighting programme (increase light).
The influence of a 2 hours light interval during the night
Lighted Feed consumption Density of eggshell
(g/day) LIGHT INTENSITY
period Exp. 1 Exp. 2 Exp. 1 Exp. 2 M A N A G E M E N T A N D R E L AT I O N
6 - 22 h 127.7 116.8 1.0722 a 1.0790 a
WITH LIVEABILITY
4 - 20 h 128.8 118.1 1.0714 b 1.0792 a
6-20 h & 23-1 h 131.9 122.0 1.0726 a 1.0806 b
Grizzle (1992) LIGHT INTENSITY DURING THE REARING
PERIOD
CYCLICAL LIGHTING PROGRAMMES
Light intensity is important during the first days of
If local regulations allow it, these programmes can be the rearing period in order to encourage the chicks to
used in buildings, which are totally light proof. The discover their environment and to quickly find water
24 hours of the day are split into cycles of 2, 4, 6 or 8 and feed.
hours. Each cycle is made up of a period of light and
a period of dark. The length of light in each cycle can Therefore, this light intensity can be reduced progressively.
vary during the laying season. The ideal light intensity will be determined in practice
by the following needs:
These segmented lighting programmes are well known • Light required to inspect the birds
for their positive effects on: • The degree of darkness of the building (light leaking
• Eggshell colour and eggshell strength in)
• Egg weight • The intensity to be used during the laying period
• Control of red mite population
• Liveability and FCR management
The physiological effects of such programmes are as
follows: oviposition can be desynchronised and laying
is spread out over 24 hours. The time of egg formation
ISA - Management Guide - Cage Production Systems 17
IN DARK HOUSE (HOUSES WHERE THE LIGHT High intensity tends to increase the nervousness of the PRACTICAL ADVISES
birds and pecking (Hughes 1972 and Savory 1995). The
P E N E T R AT I O N F R O M O U T S I D E D O E S N ’ T E X C E E D Effect of light intensity on performance.
activity of the bird is also influenced by the source of
0.5 LUX) light. The increase in the number of tiers in modern cage Intensity at the level Egg number 20/76 Egg mass (g/d) Feed cons. (g/d) BW gain (g) 20/72 Mortality %
• T he light intensity required is very low. The ideal installations, together with the change from incandescent of feed trough wks. wks.
light intensity is the minimum needed to get a bulbs to fluorescent tubes or to fluorescent bulbs, has 0.5 lux 311 52.2 123 470 5.3
good inspection of the flock. An intensity of 5 to resulted in a significant increase in light intensity to 2 lux 314 52.3 122 460 5.6
15 lux 310 52.2 122 430 6.4
10 lux is sufficient. birds in close proximity to the light source.
Tuckler 1993
IN SEMI DARK HOUSE OR N AT U R A L LY LIT High light intensity also results in a higher feed conversion • As shown herewith, the light intensity required • Hydration of the Albumen: This phase lasts about
ratio. When light intensity is reduced by 50%, the feed is low 6 hours.
HOUSES,
saving will be about 1.6g. • It is very important to have as uniform a distribution • Calcium Deposition – 2 Phases:
• In houses where the light penetration from outside
of light as possible with a bulb distribution arranged - 1st Phase. During the first 5 hours following
exceeds 0.5 lux, the light intensity should be
M O RTA L I T Y AND ACTIVITY in quincunx form in the new large laying units with entry into the uterus, calcium crystals begin
adapted to the degree of darkness of the house to
• In battery cages, we sometimes find considerable several tiers. to form.
avoid any interference with the light stimulation.
differences in light intensity at different levels. The • Existing equipment can be improved by using shades
• Artificial light intensity should be, if possible, 12
birds close to the light source demonstrate more or adhesive tape on the bulbs to reduce the intensity - 2nd Phase. Begins about 10 hours after
times the light intensity coming from outside. If the
noticeable activity leading to more risks of pecking for the birds situated in front of the bulbs. Red or ovulation and lasts for about 12 hours. During
difference is not big enough, birds will consider the
and mortality. warm light seems to be useful for reducing activity, this time 90% of the calcium is deposited on the
day length as the natural day length and not the
• Control of the mortality per tier could reveal different feather loss and pecking. shell at a rhythm of 180 to 200 mg of calcium
artificial day length if the artificial duration of light
is shorter than the natural day length levels of mortality as shown in the following table Before any modifications are made, it is extremely per hour. (see graph below).
important to measure the light intensity at various • Pigmentation: For brown eggs layers, deposits of
Mortality observed per tier according to year of production
INFLUENCE OF LIGHT INTENSITY EXPERIENCED points. When reducing the light intensity, it is important pigments (ooporphyrins) occur at the end of shell
Years 1996 1997 to be certain that the darkest areas have a light intensity formation and at the beginning of cuticle formation.
DURING THE REARING PERIOD, 8250 birds Bottom tier 1.1 0.9
• The light intensity in rearing should be adopted in of 0.5 to 1 lux. This control of light intensity will help • Cuticle formation: Cuticle is deposited in the
Middle tier 1.6 2.3
production. If birds are transferred in open house to improve the feed conversion ratio. The energy used following 2 hours.
Per tier Top tier 6.1 6.2
system, light intensity should be min, 40 lux to avoid increases by 1 Kcal/hour/bird when the intensity goes
nervous pecking behaviour in the production period. from 1 to 10 lux and also from 10 to 100 lux. This is L AY I N G TIMES OR OVIPOSITION TIMES
M O RTA L I T Y AND LIGHT SOURCE equal to a little more than 5 g of feed between 1 and
• When the production period is in naturally lit • In cages, the birds’ activity has been measured in
houses, an intensity of 40 lux is needed to avoid 10 lux and nearly 11 g of feed between 1 and 100 lux
one experiment (Boshouwers 1993) showing that Progress of egg laying during the day as a function of time
an excessive increase in intensity on transfer to (Boshouwers 1993).
activity is much higher when using fluorescent light elapsed after «lights out» for brown and white layers
the laying house, which can lead to nervousness and is strongly correlated to the light intensity.
and pecking. Effect of sexual maturity on bodyweight
Birds are sensitive to fluorescent light, which they 100
BODYWEIGHT
see as scintillating rapidly. 90
2100
LIGHT INTENSITY IN PRODUCTION
150 80
2000
Effect of type and intensity of light on bird activity
1900 140 70
The light intensity required is low. No significant Movements per hour Light intensity
differences have been found in the different trials with 1800 60
1 lux 10 lux 100 lux 130
today’s breeds. But as stated for the rearing period, F 1363 2317 3271 1700 50
higher activity
we encourage an increase in light intensity for a few I 1292 1929 2566 1600 40

days from the transfer time in order to help the bird to F 197 343 499
average activity 1500 30
I 189 283 377
discover its new environment and to find easily water 1400 20
and feed systems. F = Fluorescent Lighting I= Incandescent Lighting
1300 10
Boshouwers 1993
1200 0
Thereafter, the light intensity can be reduced step by 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19
1100
step to a minimum of 0.5 lux at the feeder level in the 90 100 110 120 130 140 150 160 170 180 190 Brown Layers White layers
Age (days)
dimmest areas of the laying house as long as during Lewis 1995

the rearing stage light intensity doesn’t exceed 10 lux.

Change in the weight of the shell (g) as a function of time
OVIPOSITION TIMES AND
There is a strong relation between bird activity, stocking elapsed after last egg
density and feather loss during production.
SHELL QUALITY
7
Shell quality depends on the amount of calcium present
in the digestive tract during shell formation. Taking into 6
LIGHT INTENSITY AND LIVEABILITY account the timing of egg laying and thus the timing
5
of shell formation allows feeding times to be adapted
Investigations have demonstrated a strong relationship
to satisfy the calcium needs of the bird. 4
between light intensity, physical activity and feather
loss. High light intensity results in increased mortality 3
as a result of vent pecking, which is increased with A R E M I N D E R O N E G G F O R M AT I O N
feather loss. 2
• Ovulation: Ovulation occurs in the 5 to 10 minutes
that follow the expulsion of the previous egg. 1

• Entry in the Uterus: After the secretion of the

0
albumen and the shell membrane, the egg enters 9 11 13 15 17 19 21 23 25
the uterus about 5 hours after ovulation.
Nys (1986)

18 ISA - Management Guide - Cage Production Systems ISA - Management Guide - Cage Production Systems 19
Laying times are determined by the “lights off” time.
Many experiments have shown that they vary very
little from one flock to another. The graph given below
shows the evolution of time of lay as a function of time
elapsed after “lights off”.
S H E L L F O R M AT I O N
For a light duration of 16 hours:
• for brown layers: around 40% of birds have finished
their calcium deposit at lights on and on average
birds begin shell formation 4 hours before lights out
• for white layers: around 50% of birds have finished
their calcium deposit 3hours and 30 minutes after
lights on and in average birds begin shell formation
just before lights out
Calcification of the shell is mainly realised during
the night. A high percentage of brown birds stop
calcification at lights on or just after, while white
layers finish their shell after lights on.
A R E M I N D E R O N S H E L L F O R M AT I O N
During shell formation the bird first uses the calcium
contained in the digestive tract, it is dissolved by
abundant secretion of Hydrochloric acid. When the
quantity of calcium is insufficient, the bone reserves
are used (the calcium is deposited on the shell and the
phosphorus eliminated by the kidneys). It has been
demonstrated many times that birds which are forced
to use their bone reserves produce eggs of poorer shell
quality.
Shell quality depends on the quantity of calcium
remaining in the gizzard at lights on for brown and
the ability for white birds to access soluble forms of
calcium after lights on.
HOW TO IMPROVE SHELL QUALITY
All methods that help to increase the quantity of calcium
stored in the gizzard before lights off and to ingest a
soluble form of calcium after lights on, have a positive
effect on shell quality. According after transfer we
advise :
For Brown Layers:
• encourage maximum feed intake during the last
6 hours of the day (distribute 6 - 7 hours before
lights out).
• arrange to have feeders empty in the middle of
the day to encourage feed intake in the afternoon.
• distribute feed during the night in the light period
of 1-2 hours, 4 hours after “lights off” if midnight
light is used or at lights on.
• ensure that the calcium content of the feed has at
least 70% in particles of 2 to 4 mm to encourage
retention in the gizzard and storage for the night
period.
• provide 30% of the calcium in easily soluble powder
form for quick availability at lights on.
20 ISA - Management Guide - Cage Production Systems
For White Layers:
• encourage maximum feed intake during the last 4
hours of the day (distribute 4 hrs before lights out).
• arrange to have feeders empty in the middle of
the day to encourage feed intake in the afternoon.
• ensure that the calcium content of the feed has 50%
in particles of 2 to 4 mm to encourage retention
in the gizzard and storage for the night period.
• provide 50% of the calcium in easily soluble powder
form for quick availability at lights on.
Important Note:
During the hot season or in summer, heat stress can
delay the oviposition time, mainly when birds are
panting. Panting provokes a loss of carbon dioxide
and bicarbonate in blood plasma. As a consequence,
oviposition times are delayed. In these circumstances
the maximum feed possible has to be given during
midnight lighting and early in the morning to maintain
production and shell quality.
ADJUSTING EGG WEIGHT TO
MEET MARKET REQUIREMENTS
Egg producers want to produce eggs of a size which
matches market demand and in the end satisfies the
needs of their customers and optimises margins.
The principal factors affecting egg weight are:
• genetic aspects
• bodyweight at sexual maturity (so at the time of
the first egg is laid)
• feed consumption and growth from first egg till
achieving of adult bodyweight
• nutritional factors
GENETIC ASPECTS
Egg weight is one of the major criteria of the breeding
programme. The heritability of the egg weight is high.
So, each breed has its own profile. In addition, for some
strains, a real effort has been made to reach marketable
egg weights rapidly from start of lay while avoiding an
increase in egg weight at the end of lay. Nevertheless,
management techniques and nutritional characteristics
of the diet can both change egg weight. Each strain has
the potential for a range of egg weights, which can vary
by about 3 to 6 g.
BODYWEIGHT AT S E X U A L M AT U R I T Y
Bodyweight at sexual maturity depends mainly on the
age of light stimulation and on the growth during rearing
period.If a flock grows according to the standard, and
the age at start of lay is changed, then the bodyweight
at sexual maturity is also changed.The age at start of lay
has a direct effect on the adult weight and, therefore,
on the egg size throughout the whole laying period.
Earlier maturing flocks will produce a greater number
of eggs, but these eggs will be smaller than those from
delayed flocks because the pullets are lighter.
Influence of pullet bodyweight at first egg on egg weight (g) over different periods.
Pullet bodyweight at first egg (g)
Period (weeks) 1300 – 1500 g 1500 – 1700 g 1700 – 1900 g > 1900 g
18 to 28 weeks 49.75 53.25 56.05 57.60
28 to 40 weeks 57.55 59.20 61.03 62.35
40 to 60 weeks 61.65 62.55 64.55 65.80
Isa Brown pullets - Lewis - 1992
CONTROL O F T H E S E X U A L M AT U R I T Y physiological impact of these programmes are as follows:
Research has shown that mean egg weight increases • Egg laying occurs throughout 24 hours and the
by 1 g when sexual maturity is delayed by one week. length of time in egg formation is increased.
Conversely, the number of eggs will be decreased. For • This allows an increase in egg weight of 2-3% but
each change of one week in age at the start of lay, there reduce the egg number by the same proportion
will be a change of about 4.5 eggs in number laid. By
using the appropriate techniques, the age at start of FEED RESTRICTION
lay can be modified to produce eggs of the required A light food restriction can be used to control egg weight
weight, without affecting the total egg mass produced. towards the end of the laying period. It can be used only
when the birds achieve the standard of bodyweight at
Rather than giving light stimulation according to age, we
28 weeks of age. This technique can be used step by
advise not starting to increase day-length until pullets
step by avoiding a too strong feed restriction which will
have reached the target weight planned. This means
lead to a deterioration of the production rate.
that they will not be allowed to come into lay at too
low a bodyweight, which would be prejudicial to egg • The distribution of the feeding times could be
weight and overall performance. concentrated step by step to reduce the food
consumption
• The introduction of one or two dark periods during
BODYWEIGHT AT 24 WEEKS
the day could also be applied
Egg weight is highly dependent on bodyweight at 24
NUTRITIONAL ASPECTS
weeks. Between 5% lay and peak production, bodyweight
should increase by at least 300 g for brown and 200g Egg weight can be increased by the use of vegetable oil
for white layers. in the layer ration. This effect used to be attributed to
the level of linoleic acid in the ration, but Whitehead
Our research has enabled us to determine optimum (1981) has shown that the effect on egg weight can
bodyweights throughout the rearing and laying periods. be attributed to oil and not to the level of linoleic acid.
This plays an essential role in obtaining performance In rations, where the cereals were either wheat or a
as measured by egg numbers, egg weights and feed mixture of wheat and barley, he compared the addition of
conversion ratio. either corn oil, which is rich in linoleic acid, or olive oil,
which is poor in linoleic acid. Therefore, it is preferable
Throughout rearing and after transfer, attention should to speak in terms of the effects of oil, rather than the
be focused on the feeding techniques and the growth effects of linoleic acid. Over a given level, the oil level
curve. in the ration has more effect than the linoleic acid level
on the ratio. The addition of unsaturated fats leads to
an increase in the energy intake, of the bodyweight of
INFLUENCE O F H E AT
the bird, the egg weight and the egg mass produced.
Rate of lay isusually only affected at temperatures above
Oil Level of Level of Egg weight
30°C. Egg weight falls by about 0.4% per °C between
palmitic acid linoleic acid
23 and 27 °C. Above 27°C, the reduction is about 0.8%
Palm 28.4 1.52 63.0
per °C. Growth at start of lay is reduced above 24°C Seaweed 18.0 1.37 63.1
and is extremely low above 28°C. The feed conversion
Lard 17.8 1.64 64.3
ratio reaches a minimum at 28°C. These figures are only Grape 11.2 2.67 65.5
indicative, because air movement speed and relative Linseed 10.5 1.65 65.3
humidity affect thermoregulation. Meluzzi et al, 2001
For all the amino acids, without exception, a deficiency leads
LIGHTINGPROGRAMMES DURING to a reduction in performance, if which 60-65% is due to a
PRODUCTION lowering of rate of lay and 35-40% to a reduction in egg weight.
The programmes called “cyclical lighting programmes”
allow an increase in egg weight. They can only be used,
when the buildings are completely light proof. The
ISA - Management Guide - Cage Production Systems 21
WATE R : T H E MO S T C R I T IC A L N U TR I E N T VACC I N AT I O N S TEC H N I Q U E S
The water is the most critical nutrient for the poultry. evaluating the quality of the decontamination process. IMMUNITY • 150 to 200 ml per 1000 chicks
The daily control of water consumption is essential. If The water pipe should be rinsed before pullets’ arrival. • Still used in many countries against Newcastle
an animal does not drink, it will not eat and can not Birds possess two primary organs of primary lymphoid disease and Gumboro during the first week because
produce. activity: the thymus and the Bursa of Fabricius. of the need to achieve 100% vaccination and reduce
T R E AT M E N T O F D R I N K I N G WAT E R
the possibility of adverse respiratory reactions
• Situated in the neck region, the thymus is the organ,
Chlorination is still the best and most economic method • Usually used when vaccination by drinking water
W AT E R QUALITY where the T lymphocytes mature, and is responsible
of treating drinking water. The chlorine can be injected is not possible (irregular water consumption before
for immunity due to cell mediation immunity. It is
by means of a dosing pump. A contact time of 15 to 30 5 days of age) and when a vaccination by spraying
Good quality drinking water is very important for functional from hatching, and develops with age
minutes between the water and the chlorine is necessary would run the risk of causing harmful respiratory
(production) animals. Birds must always have easy access into the secondary lymphoid organ.
for good disinfection. It is essential to monitor the reactions.
to the drinking water, the water must be fresh and bright. • The Bursa of Fabricius is the organ, where B
Taste and smell seem to be of less importance to the residual active chlorine at the end of the pipe system type lymphocytes mature, and is responsible for
birds but are indicators for the water quality. once a week. Only the test measuring the reaction to immunity via the humoral system. This is functional SKIN PUNCTURE A N D S C A R I F I C AT I O N
D.P.D. (diethyl phenylene diamine) allows for that. at hatching, and remains developed and active up ( S C R AT C H )
In detail: The colorimetric test using orthotoluidine does in fact to between 4 and 10 weeks of age, after which it
measure chlorine in all its forms (active and inactive). regresses gradually. Only used for the administration of live fowl pox
Parameter Poultry vaccination or pox vector vaccines
The residual level of active chlorine at the end of the
Good quality Do not use Birds possess numerous secondary lymphoid structures
PH 5 – 8,5 <4 and >9 system should be 0.3 - 0.4 mg/litre (0.3 - 0.4 ppm).
distributed throughout the whole body: Puncturing the wing web with the help of a double-
Ammonium mg/l <2,0 >10 Chlorine becomes dissociated in water into hypochlorous
• Peyer's patches on the intestinal mucosa channelled needle is generally preferred to scarification
Nitrite mg/l <0,1 >1,0 acids and hypochlorite ions. The percentage of these
• Caecal tonsils on the ileo-caecal mucosa of the skin on the thigh, using a vaccination stylus.
Nitrate mg/l <100 >200 two chlorine fractions depends on the pH of the water.
Chloride mg/l <250 >2000 Hypochlorous acid is 120 times more active than the • Lymphoid structures throughout the length of the
Sodium mg/l <800 >1500 hypochlorite ion. It is therefore, desirable that the pH respiratory network INTRAMUSCULAR A N D S U B - C U TA N E O U S
Sulfate mg/l <150 >250 • Harderian gland situated at the back of the third
Iron mg/l <0,5 >2,5
of the treated water stays below 7 so that chlorine INJECTIONS
disinfection can be effective. eyelid • Equipment should be sterile (this is important as
Manganese mg/l <1,0 >2,0
“lime/chulk content” <20 >25 • - Small inclusions in most organs, including the seroma formation may become an issue)
“oxidizable organic nerves • Needle should be the appropriate length for the
<50 >200 CLEANING THE DRINKERS
matter” mg/l • - Spleen age of bird
H2S non detectable non detectable All these immune structures are called upon, when • Change needle frequently (at least every 500
Coliform bacterials cfu/ml <100 >100 The water system should be cleaned regularly, but
must be cleaned after water treatments, especially after vaccines are administered according to different injections) This is a minimum frequency as more
Total germ count cfu/ml <100.000 >100.000
antibiotic treatment. routes: putting liquid into the ocular fluid (eye drops), regular changes of the needle assist with the welfare
impregnation of the palatine groove at the time of of the birds (blunting needles) and from a disease
MONITORING WAT E R Q U A L I T Y The water in drinkers often becomes soiled with feed swallowing (drinking water), inhalation of droplets spreading perspective – Avian leucosis.
residues, and possibly with contaminants. To prevent (spraying). • Take the bottles out of the fridge several hours
The value of any analysis depends on when, where, and the development of germs in the drinkers, they should before use to improve fluidity (inactivated oil based
how the sample has been taken, (where it enters the be cleaned at least once a day during the first 2 weeks, vaccines)
Individual & mass vaccination methods
house or at the end of the system). One should not and once a week thereafter. • Birds’neck (bacterial vaccines in oil based adjuvants)
forget that an analysis only refers to the quality of the Individual vaccination Mass vaccination
Oculo-nasal instillation or Breast muscle (especially for oil based inactivated
water at the time when the sample was taken, and is In a hot climate, the drinkers should be cleaned every By spraying vaccines)
(Eye drops)
never a guarantee of its quality at another time. day. The depth of water in the drinkers should be 15 mm. Beak dipping Through the drinking water
Skin puncture and scarification THROUGH D R I N K I N G WAT E R
Where farms have their own water supply, it is necessary
Intramuscular and sub-
to take a sample at least twice a year (one at the end W AT E R CONSUMPTION Ideally should only be used in birds of more than one
cutaneous injections week of age (in order to get uniform water consumption/
of winter, the other at the end of summer). On farms
using the mains supply an annual measurement should Water consumption depends on ambient temperature. take up).
be adequate. It is important to realise that the sodium Above 20°C, consumption increases to enable the bird OCULO-NASAL I N S T I L L AT I O N (EYE DROPS) • Take care to regularly de-scale and clean the pipe
thiosulphate, contained in the flasks supplied by the to maintain body temperature (respiratory evaporation). system using water under pressure in a contra-flow
laboratories carrying out bacteriological tests on water, Allows a local and a general immunity, due to the
The actual consumption depends on temperature and direction and then adding organic acids to the
only neutralises chlorine or bleach. It has no action on presence of the Harderian gland behind the third eyelid
humidity of the ambient air. The following table shows drinking water over four consecutive days.
quaternary ammonium compounds. • Always keep the bottle vertical to avoid contact • Before vaccination, check if the drinker and nipple
the relationship between water and feed consumption
with mucous membranes are clean and working well. There should be no
according to house temperature:
CLEANING THE PIPE SYSTEM DURING THE • Generally 1000 droplets per 30 ml disinfectant in the lines as this will inactivate the
• Coloured ocular diluents makes it easier to see that vaccine. Ensure all water sanitizing systems have
S A N I TA RY B R E A K . Water to feed ratio according to temperature in rearing and
the vaccine is administrated properly been turned off and the water in the system is clean
laying period • Generally used for Infectious Laryngotracheitis water only, 24h before vaccination.
Mineral and organic deposits in drinker pipelines give
Temperature Rearing Production • Allow the birds to become thirsty, 30 minutes to
favourable conditions for bacterial growth and reduce
15°C 1.6 1.70 (210 ml) 1hour and 30 minutes or longer (depending on
the activity of chlorine. Therefore, it is essential to BEAK DIPPING
20°C 1.7 1.80 (205 ml)
decontaminate the pipelines, when the birds have gone. 25°C 2.3 2.10 (230 ml)
climate and thirst) before distributing the vaccine
The best solution is to use alkaline and acid cleaners in 30°C 3.0 3.10 (320 ml) This involves dipping the beak up to the nostrils in such a solution.
succession (order to be verify). A bacteriological test on way that the vaccinal solution gets into the nasal canals. • Completely empty the whole water system. Make
In hot periods it is essential to provide cool water for sure that all water present is drained out, especially
the water at the end of the circuit should be carried out • Only to be used with chicks of less than 1 week
the birds. In a hot climate, cool water will improve in the bottom of the tank and in the lowest points
systematically before the new flock arrives as a means of of age
productivity. It is extremely important to protect the of the piping system.
water tanks from the direct sunlight.

22 ISA - Management Guide - Cage Production Systems ISA - Management Guide - Cage Production Systems 23
 • Always have an area available to make up the
vaccine in a hygienic way – disposable gloves should
Spraying is, therefore, particularly indicated for
vaccination with less virulent viruses, with respiratory
APPENDIX
also be available connotations (e.g. Hitchner B 1 and La Sota strains against
• Forecast the quantity of water required, enough to Newcastle Disease, H120 against Infectious Bronchitis, D AY L E N G T H TA B L E S A C C O R D I N G T O L AT I T U D E
be consumed in about 2 hours. Quantity is about and the vaccine against Swollen Head Syndrome...). In
1/7 of the quantity consumed the previous day. any case, follow the vaccine manufacturer instruction. Lat. Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
• Dissolve 2.5 g of skimmed powder per litre of water 0 12:07 12:07 12:06 12:06 12:06 12:07 12:07 12:06 12:06 12:06 12:06 12:07
(avoid lumps forming). The effectiveness of spray vaccination and the severity
of post-vaccinal respiratory reactions depends mainly 5 11:50 11:54 12:01 12:09 12:17 12:23 12:24 12:19 12:12 12:04 11:56 11:51
• Next, dissolve in a small quantity of commercial
on the size of the droplets in contact with the eye or 10 11:33 11:42 11:56 12:13 12:28 12:40 12:41 12:33 12:18 12:01 11:46 11:35
mineral water (or distilled water) the number of
the respiratory tract of the birds. 15 11:15 11:29 11:50 12:16 12:40 12:57 13:00 12:47 12:24 11:59 11:35 11:18
doses corresponding at least to the number of
birds to be vaccinated according to their age. Mix 20 10:57 11:16 11:45 12:20 12:52 13:15 13:19 13:01 12:30 11:57 11:23 11:00
According to the equipment used and the atmospheric 25 10:37 11:02 11:39 12:24 13:05 13:35 13:39 13:17 12:37 11:54 11:12 10:41
this vaccine solution thoroughly (using a plastic
conditions, the quantity of water should be adjusted
stirrer) to the milky water prepared previously. A 30 10:15 10:46 11:33 12:29 13:20 13:57 14:02 13:34 12:45 11:52 10:59 10:21
so that :
colour marker may be used to identify the vaccine 35 9:51 10:29 11:26 12:34 13:36 14:21 14:28 13:53 12:54 11:49 10:44 9:58
solution. Keep the vaccine solution cool, and away • the spraying of the group or flock lasts between 40 9:23 10:10 11:18 12:40 13:54 14:49 14:57 14:15 13:03 11:46 10:28 9:32
from direct sun exposure. 15 and 20 minutes 45 8:50 9:48 11:09 12:47 14:16 15:23 15:33 14:41 13:15 11:42 10:09 9:01
• Check that all the drinkers and nipples are filled • several passages of spray can be made 50 8:10 9:20 10:58 12:55 14:42 16:04 16:17 15:13 13:28 11:38 9:47 8:24
with the milky water. In specific case of nipples, • the fogging succeeds in reaching the eye or the
55 7:17 8:46 10:45 13:05 15:15 16:59 17:16 15:53 13:46 11:33 9:18 7:35
open the water pipe at the other end to flush the respiratory tract
60 6:03 8:00 10:29 13:18 16:00 18:18 18:42 16:49 14:08 11:26 8:41 6:27
air trapped and to insure that the vaccine solution Atomisation refers exclusively to repeat vaccination 65 3:54 6:54 10:06 13:37 17:05 20:42 21:36 18:14 14:39 11:18 7:48 4:36
reaches the other end. against Newcastle disease.
• - Walk slowly through the building and make sure
that all the birds are drinking the vaccine solution. L AT I T U D E S
• Finally, open the stopcock and return to normal S U M M A RY OF PRACTICAL ADVICE :
watering. Start again sanitation minimum 12 hours • Only spray vaccinate when birds are in a good
after vaccination. 60.00 60.00
health.
• All the equipment used for the preparation of the • The equipment should be clean, without traces of 45.00 45.00
vaccine solution should be clean without trace of chlorine or disinfectant, well maintained, correctly
disinfectant. calibrated and reserved exclusively for vaccination. 30.00 30.00
• Water quality aspects: • Prepare the vaccine solution immediately before use 15.00 15.00
- Should conform to the standards for human with water of high biological quality, cool, free from
consumption without excess minerals. chlorine or disinfectants, slightly acidic (pH between 0.00 0.00
5.5 and 6.5), without excessive mineral content.
15.00 15.00
- pH should be slightly acidic for preference Taking into account the low volumes needed, use
between 5.5 and 6.5. for preference distilled water or commercial mineral 30.00 30.00
water.
- preferably between 5.5 and 6.5. • Gather the birds together quietly into a very 45.00 45.00

- Where city water or equipment with traces of restricted area (so that the minimum quantity of 60.00 60.00
chlorine is used, add 2.5 g of skimmed milk droplets fall on the ground)
powder to neutralise the chlorine. • Switch off the lights, the brooders and the
ventilation. The flock should be calm, with heads up
To vaccinate a flock correctly, you need to have at least • Wear a mask.
90% of the birds to have properly absorbed a full dose • Spray the heads of the birds for 15 to 20 minutes CONVERSION TA B L E
of vaccine in its fully live state. This can be checked if slowly making several passes. Energy
you add blue dye to the vaccine. • Ventilation could be forced 15 to 30 minutes after
1 cal = 4.1868 J
spray.
• Rinse the equipment thoroughly in clean water, 1 kcal = 4.1868 kJ
V A C C I N AT I O N B Y S P R AY
containing neither chlorine nor disinfectants Temperature
This method consists of spraying a vaccine solution in • Quality of vaccination can be checked by adding C=5/9 (°F-32)
such a way that droplets contain a sufficient number blue dye to the vaccine before spraying (90% of F=(9/5°C) +32
of living virus particles to come in to contact with the the birds minimum should be reached by the colored
mucous membranes of the eye and/or the respiratory Surface
vaccinal solution) or getting serological tests (ELISA or
tract so that they can multiply there. The immune 1 cm² = 0.1550 sq. in
HIT) on the flocks on blood samples taken on the day of
response will at first be local, and then general. 1 m² = 10.76387 sq.ft = 1.195985 sq. yd
vaccination and 3-4 weeks after vaccination. Antibody
Spray vaccinations recommendations according Light
titers should be significantly increased on the second
to the system used 1 Lux =1 candela = 1 lumen/m²
control compared to the first one.
Fogging Atomisation Weight
Examples of equipment Spravac Birchmeier Ulvavac Atomist 115 g = ¼ lbs = 2 oz
Use Primary vaccination Primary vaccination at the Primary vaccination Booster doses on the 1 kg = 2.2 lbs
at the hatchery hatchery or on the farm booster doses on the farm farm (> 15 days)
Lenght
Pressure 3.5 bars 2 to 2.5 bars Mechanical propulsion Aerial propulsion
Droplet size 100 – 150 µ 78 – 80 µ 15 – 50 µ 1 mm = 0.03937 in
Quantity of water 70 ml / 200 ml 400 to 1200 ml 30 to 60 ml 300 to 600 ml
1 m = 3.28083 ft
for 1000 birds
1m = 1.093611 yd

24 ISA - Management Guide - Cage Production Systems ISA - Management Guide - Cage Production Systems 25
N OTE S

26 ISA - Management Guide - Cage Production Systems ISA - Management Guide - Cage Production Systems 27
28 ISA - Management Guide - Cage Production Systems