Autumn marks the beginning of the first production phase for reserve hens, making it a critical time for their development and future egg-laying performance. Proper feeding and management during this period directly impact the overall profitability of poultry farming. To ensure optimal performance from your laying hens, several key technical practices should be carefully followed.
One important step is to transition the feed gradually. At 20 weeks of age, hens should be fed a pre-lay diet containing 1% calcium and 16.5% crude protein. As the egg production rate increases to between 2% and 6%, the feed should be adjusted to contain 3.4% to 3.5% calcium and 18% crude protein. This gradual change helps support the hen’s reproductive system and ensures a smooth start to egg production.
Temperature control is also essential. Laying hens perform best in an environment around 18°C. If temperatures drop below 13°C or rise above the ideal range, the hens will require more energy to maintain body heat, which can reduce feed intake and affect egg production. During hot weather, hens tend to eat less, so it's crucial to adjust the protein content of the feed accordingly to support their growth and sexual maturity.
Maintaining proper humidity and ventilation is equally important. The ideal relative humidity in the chicken house should be between 55% and 65%. After four weeks of age, it can be slightly reduced to about 50%. High humidity can cause hens to lose appetite and delay sexual maturity. Poor ventilation leads to increased levels of harmful gases, higher humidity, and lower oxygen levels, all of which can stunt the hens’ growth and delay their onset of egg-laying.
Clean, fresh water must always be available. Newly developed hens require a significant amount of water—approximately 100 grams per day. Dehydration can severely affect their health and productivity. It's recommended to provide a continuous flow of clean water and add diluted saltwater (brine) 2–3 times per week to improve hydration and support overall well-being.
By focusing on these key areas—feed transition, temperature, humidity, ventilation, and water supply—you can significantly enhance the health and productivity of your reserve hens. These steps are vital for long-term success in poultry farming. Always ensure that your management practices are up-to-date and tailored to the specific needs of your flock.
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