The growth cycle of broiler and laying hens
The growth cycle of broiler (meat) and laying hens (egg-layers) differs significantly due to their intended purposes in the poultry industry.
Broiler Chickens:
1. Hatchery: Broiler chicks begin their lives in hatcheries where they are hatched from fertilized eggs. They spend about 21 days in the incubator before hatching.
2. Brooding Stage (0-2 weeks): After hatching, broiler chicks are moved to brooding facilities where they are kept warm, provided with proper ventilation, and given access to feed and water. This stage lasts for about 1-2 weeks.
3. Growing Stage (3-5 weeks): Broiler chickens are transferred to grow-out houses where they continue to grow rapidly. They are fed a high-protein diet optimized for fast growth. During this period, they reach market weight, which is typically around 4-5 weeks of age.
4. Processing: Once broiler chickens reach market weight, they are processed for meat. This involves slaughtering, feather removal, evisceration, and packaging.
Laying Hens:
1. Hatchery: Laying hens also begin their lives in hatcheries, where they are hatched from fertilized eggs. The incubation period is typically around 21 days.
2. Brooding Stage (0-6 weeks): Similar to broilers, laying hen chicks require brooding for warmth, proper ventilation, and access to feed and water during the first few weeks of life.
3. Pullet Stage (7-18 weeks): After the brooding stage, laying hen chicks are referred to as pullets. During this stage, they are gradually transitioned to layer feed and are provided with conditions to support skeletal development and prepare for egg production.
4. Point of Lay (18-24 weeks): At around 18-24 weeks of age, depending on the breed and management practices, pullets reach sexual maturity and start laying eggs. This period is referred to as the point of lay.
5. Egg Production: Laying hens typically continue to lay eggs for about 12-14 months at peak production levels. Afterward, egg production gradually declines, and the hens are often removed from production and replaced with younger pullets.
6. End of Production: Once a laying hen's egg production declines significantly, she may be culled from the flock. Depending on the management practices, some hens may be kept for longer periods if they are still deemed economically viable.
In summary, broiler chickens are raised for meat production and have a relatively short growth cycle, typically reaching market weight in around 4-5 weeks. Laying hens, on the other hand, are raised for egg production and have a longer growth cycle, beginning egg laying at around 18-24 weeks of age and continuing for about 12-14 months at peak production levels.
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