By Tshifhiwa Muifha
Layer production farmers to inspect their chickens every 30 minutes to identify potential problems early.
Layer chicken farmers from the LDARD Vhembe West Agro-Ecological Zone gathered at Dzanani Service Centre for an information day aimed at improving their knowledge and skills in poultry production.
The information day was held in partnership with Brenco Feeds and the LDARD Vhembe West Dzanani Service Centre. It focused on good management practices, breed selection and strategies to improve productivity and reduce production costs.
Brenco Feeds representative, Mr Tshifhiwa Ravele, who was the main speaker, encouraged farmers to consider purchasing pullets rather than point-of-lay chickens, noting that this could help reduce production costs by up to 40%.
“For the proper management of your layers, you must be well informed about the exact breed of your chickens so that you can adjust the lighting programme accordingly,” said Ravele.
He further emphasised the importance of following appropriate feeding, lighting and vaccination programmes, ensuring an adequate supply of clean water and conducting regular inspections of layer houses. He encouraged farmers to inspect their chickens every 30 minutes to identify potential problems early.
“Underfeeding negatively affects the weight of chickens as well as their laying performance,” he cautioned.
To help chickens cope with high temperatures, Ravele advised farmers to consider installing overhead piping systems fitted with misting facilities to assist in managing heat stress.
He also highlighted the importance of sound poultry management and disease prevention, advising farmers to avoid keeping layers and broilers in the same environment.
Furthermore, he explained about weak eggshells citing that it may result from nutritional deficiencies, heat stress, or even ageing. Farmers were encouraged to identify and address these factors to maintain egg quality and production
