Improving the even distribution of feed for broiler parent stocks

A common system for feeding broiler parent stock uses pans, spread out along the length of the auger lines. Since breeding hens are allowed only a restricted amount of feed, the even distribution of the feed simultaneously to all pans is required. This provides each hen with a chance for an equal share of the limited feed. This requirement of even distribution is frequently not being met, in which case every auger line has "preferred pans" which are those up the line, close to the feed bin. The pans down the line are either filled quite late, or, in many cases, not at all. The pans up the line are also the last to contain feed after the auger is stopped. Hence, the stronger hens, having learned to push their way in around the "preferred pans", get a larger share of the feed. More even distribution of the feed could be achieved by decreasing the feed holding capacity of the pan core. The auger may then fill the sequence of pans in a much shorter period of time. The core of a pan can usually hold about 650 gr. of feed. A device has been developed, which when inserted into the pan core, can reduce its holding capacity significantly. The device is adjustable, and can obtain any capacity between 150 to 450 grams of feed. These newly developed pan inserts will improve the distribution performance of both old and new feeding lines, including those that may have poor orifice adjustment. In trying the new device with both hens and cocks, using a pan core capacity of 250 gr., improved performance was obtained. The following observations were made: 1. There was faster running of feed toward pans down the line. 2. As each pan could contain only 250 gr., sufficient feed was available to reach all pans regularly. 3. Although some "preferred pans" still prevailed, since they contained only 250 gr. the uneveness of feed distribution was reduced considerably. The new insert is already being used commercially. All growers report improved feed distribution. Feed savings were reported for pullets, and for cocks a much more uniform body weight was achieved.