The effects of stocking density and housing on feed efficiency and growth performance of broiler chickens

MSC in Agriculture in Animal Science

Department of Animal Science

The poultry industry in South Africa is a significant contributor to the agricultural sector, with broiler production accounting for 80% of total broiler production within the Southern African Development Community. However, the industry faces challenges such as high input costs, particularly feed, and lack of domestically produced ingredients. To maximize broiler performance, producers should improve feed efficiency, which is crucial for profitability and long-term viability. Factors affecting feed efficiency include energy level of feed, temperature in the house, litter quality, feed wastage, and disease presence. Optimal growth performance is crucial, as it directly impacts the time it takes to bring products to market and the overall quality of the final product. This study was to compare broiler performance under small scale production between fan exhaust houses and open-sided, naturally ventilated houses. The research aimed at determining the effects of stocking density and housing type on broiler performance, welfare, and economic implications. High stocking density is a strategy used by broiler farmers to maximize floor space, but it can have adverse effects on chickens, including lower growth rates, feed intake, and feed efficiency. High stocking densities can lead to diseases, increased litter moisture, higher temperatures, and increased competition for feed, affecting broiler growth. Lower stocking densities result in reduced oxidative stress and better growth performance. Broiler houses are essential for optimal feed intake and feed efficiency in poultry farming. Natural ventilation systems, which control airflow and temperature, are common in small-scale productions, while mechanical ventilation systems require efficient fans. The choice of housing system and design significantly impacts the welfare and productivity of broilers. Stocking density and housing type significantly impact animal well-being and performance. The economic implications of stocking density and housing type are complex, requiring a careful equilibrium to maximize production costs, revenue, and total profitability in broiler chicken farming. Ethical considerations, such as clean and disinfected pens and access to clean water and feed, are essential for broiler welfare and health. The experiment involved a study on broiler houses with different designs, including natural ventilation and fan exhaust houses. A total of 300 Arbor Acre birds were housed in these houses, with half in naturally ventilated houses and the remaining in ventilated houses. Data collection began on day 8, and weekly feed intake was determined by subtracting left over feed from the total feed supplied for each seven-day interval. Feed conversion ratio was obtained by dividing the average weekly feed consumption per bird per replicate by the average weekly weight gain per bird per replicate. The results showed that broiler performance was not significantly affected by stocking density however housing type had a significant difference on feed intake in house 1 (H1) but not on feed efficiency. Overall stocking density and housing did not have any significant difference on broiler performance. For economic reasons farmers under small scale farming can use naturally ventilated houses.