Transferring chickens is a critical process in poultry production, and improper handling can lead to significant stress for the flock. This stress typically comes from two main sources: the unfamiliarity with the new environment and the social dynamics within the group itself. To minimize these negative impacts, it's essential to follow best practices during the transition period. Here are some key steps to ensure a smoother move:
First, proper planning is crucial. Assign specific roles to your team—such as chicken catchers, carriers, and handlers—to ensure efficiency and reduce confusion. When catching chickens, handle them gently to avoid injury. Avoid overloading transport containers, as overcrowding can cause crushing or suffocation, leading to unnecessary losses.
Six hours before moving, stop feeding the chickens to prevent digestive issues during transit. Ensure that feed and water are available in the destination house. Consider increasing the vitamin content in their feed by 1–2 times, and add vitamin C to their drinking water to help reduce stress levels during the journey.
Choose transfer times carefully. Avoid transporting chickens during extreme weather conditions such as heat, rain, or snow. In summer, plan the move during cooler morning or evening hours, while in winter, opt for a sunny and warm midday when temperatures are more favorable.
Before transferring, sort the chickens by weight to promote uniform growth and development. Remove any sick, weak, injured, or non-viable birds to maintain the health of the remaining flock. This also helps reduce competition and aggression among the group.
Once the chickens are moved, they may feel uneasy due to the change in environment. The social structure of the flock will also shift, which often leads to fighting. Monitor the flock closely and isolate any injured birds immediately to prevent further harm.
Avoid combining transportation with other stressful events like vaccination. Doing so can increase overall stress levels and negatively impact the chickens’ well-being. By following these guidelines, you can significantly improve the success of the transfer and support the long-term health of your flock.
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