PS Management Guide Novogen Tinted GB Rev3
PS Management Guide Novogen Tinted GB Rev3
PS Management Guide Novogen Tinted GB Rev3
NOVOgen Tinted
www.novogen-layers.com
Parent Stock Management Guide – NOVOgen TINTED
TABLE OF CONTENTS
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. FLOCK MANAGEMENT DURING THE REARING PERIOD ....................................................................... 1
STOCKING DENSITY, DRINKER SPACE AND FEEDING SPACE IN REARING .............................. 1
STARTING UP STRATEGY .................................................................................................................. 2
CLIMATE STRATEGY .......................................................................................................................... 2
GRIT AND GRAIN ................................................................................................................................. 4
2. LIGHTING PROGRAMME ............................................................................................................................ 5
GENERAL RULES ................................................................................................................................ 5
IN LIGHT-CONTROLLED REARING HOUSES (<0.5 LUX) ................................................................. 7
LIGHTING PROGRAMME IN SEMI – DARK OR OPEN REARING HOUSES (>0.5 LUX).................. 8
3. FLOCK MANAGEMENT DURING THE PRODUCTION PERIOD ............................................................... 9
STOCKING DENSITY, DRINKER SPACE AND FEEDING SPACE IN PRODUCTION ...................... 9
TRANSFER ........................................................................................................................................... 9
LIGHTING PROGRAMME DURING THE PRODUCTION PERIOD..................................................... 9
LIGHT INTENSITY MANAGEMENT DURING THE PRODUCTION PERIOD ................................... 10
FLOOR EGGS PREVENTION ............................................................................................................ 10
4. MONITORING BODYWEIGHT AND UNIFORMITY ................................................................................... 11
BODYWEIGHT CONTROL ................................................................................................................. 11
UNIFORMITY CONTROL ................................................................................................................... 11
5. MANAGING MALES ................................................................................................................................... 12
KEY POINTS OF MANAGING MALES ............................................................................................... 12
6. BEAK TREATMENT.................................................................................................................................... 13
BEAK TREATMENT MONITORING ................................................................................................... 13
FULLY BEAKED FLOCKS MANAGEMENT ....................................................................................... 14
7. CARE OF HATCHING EGGS ON FARM ................................................................................................... 15
EGG HANDLING ................................................................................................................................. 15
EGG DISINFECTION .......................................................................................................................... 16
EGG STORAGE .................................................................................................................................. 17
8. WATER MANAGEMENT ............................................................................................................................ 18
WATER MANAGEMENT DURING THE REARING PERIOD............................................................. 18
WATER QUANTITY ............................................................................................................................ 18
WATER QUALITY ............................................................................................................................... 18
9. NUTRITION ................................................................................................................................................. 21
EXAMPLE OF DIET SPECIFICATIONS FOR REARING PERIOD .................................................... 22
EXAMPLE OF DIET SPECIFICATIONS FROM 2% PRODUCTION TO 28 WEEKS......................... 23
EXAMPLE OF DIET SPECIFICATIONS FROM 28 TO 45 WEEKS ................................................... 24
EXAMPLE OF DIET SPECIFICATIONS FROM 45 TO DEPLETION ................................................. 25
10. HEALTH PROGRAMME ............................................................................................................................. 26
VACCINATION .................................................................................................................................... 26
Parent Stock Management Guide – NOVOgen TINTED
TABLE OF CONTENTS
The performance data contained in this document was obtained from results and experience from our own research flocks and
flocks of our customers. In no way does the data contained in this document constitute a warranty or guarantee of the same performance
under different conditions of nutrition, density or physical or biological environment. In particular (but without limitation of the
foregoing) we do not grant any warranties regarding the fitness for purpose, performance, use, nature or quality of the flocks. NOVOGEN
makes no representation as to the accuracy or completeness of the information contained in this document.
Parent Stock Management Guide – NOVOgen TINTED
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Parent Stock Management Guide – NOVOgen TINTED
STARTING UP STRATEGY
ALL SYSTEM
• Before chicks arrive, feed should be accessible to the chicks. Feeders should be well filled and feed should be
spread over chick paper especially close to the drinking lines. This stimulates the chicks to use the drinking
equipment.
• Feed must be regularly renewed to keep it fresh and attractive.
• Before arrival the drinking lines must be checked, so that fresh water is provided and leakage is prevented.
• Triggering the nipples or water cups encourages the birds to drink
• Unload the chicks close to drinkers and feeders.
SYSTEM SPECIFICITIES
• Floor system:
o Additional starter drinkers and feeders can be used in the first 2 weeks
o If brooding takes place in only part of the house, do not exceed a stocking density of 20 chicks
per available m2. Thus allowing chicks to spread quickly over the whole house within the first 7
days.
o In case of use of circular brooder guards (rings or surrounds):
Choose a diameter of 3 to 4 m at day-old but ensure the ring can be enlarged 48 hours
after the arrival
Ensure the surround can be easily removed after the birds have familiarised themselves
with the location of the drinker and feeder systems. Usually, guards can be removed 5 to
7 days after arrival.
• Cage system
o Use soft mat and/or paper on the bottom of the cage to improve the ease of movement and comfort
of the chick for the first few days. Paper must be removed by day 7 at the latest.
CLIMATE STRATEGY
Before and after arrival and starting up of the chicks, the below information can be used as guidelines for optimal
performance. Be aware that those setting depends highly on local climate conditions and must be adapted
accordingly.
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• Check the distribution and behaviour of the chicks to enable you to adapt and manage the temperature
of the House:
o Good distribution and activity correct temperature and climate
o Chicks cuddle and/or avoid large areas of the barn temperature is too low or presence of air draft
o Chicks are panting and are lying on the ground with their wings spread temperature is too high
Scheme: Chicks distribution example
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Temperature and relative humidity are important climate parameters, but not the only ones. An optimal ventilation in
the rearing house is important to obtain the right oxygen level, a uniform air and temperature disitribution and for the
removal of dust and ammonia. If mechanical ventilation is used, the ventilation settings are calculated based on:
• The right temperature based on the age of the chicks
• Constant RH (between 50-70%). Too dry air can damage the oral epithelium.
• An O2 level around 20%
o CO2 with direct heating < 5000 ppm
o CO2 with indirect heating < 3000 ppm
o CO < 10 ppm
o Ammonia< 10 ppm
o Inspirable dast < 3,5 mg/m³
Based on those settings the recommendations for minimum ventilation results in:
• 0,08 m³/bird/hour at arrival
• 0,7 m3 per kg housed in animal, when outside temperature colder than 10⁰C.
• 1,0 m3 per kg housed animal, when outside temperature warmer than 10⁰C.
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LIGHTING PROGRAMME
2. LIGHTING PROGRAMME
GENERAL RULES
Sexual maturity and production are largely influenced by the changes in day length to which pullets are exposed.
Carefully chosen lighting programmes will help to optimise the performance of breeders stocks. Sexual maturity and
bodyweight at sexual maturity influence the production, the egg size and the liveability, so the total number of hatching
eggs per hen housed.
It is difficult to advise a universally optimum and perfect lighting programme. The following lighting programmes are
examples and have to be considered as a guideline to help formulate a lighting programme adapted to your own
situation;
To establish your own lighting programme, it is important to take into account the following factors:
• Your location (changes in light duration (day length) during the year)
• The characteristics of the rearing unit (light-controlled, semi-dark or open house type)
• Season of the year (increasing or decreasing day length)
• Temperature (light duration at the highest temperature)
• Date of the hatch (what is the natural day length at the bodyweight targeted when light stimulation will
take place for onset of lay?)
• Growth of the flock
• Past records of performance obtained in this rearing unit
• Avoid any unwanted external lights in the dark house. It can affect the lighting program and efficiency
and induce feather pecking.
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LIGHTING PROGRAMME
LIGHTING PROGRAMME FROM 8 WEEKS OF AGE TILL 2-5% OF PRODUCTION
In order to control sexual maturity and to avoid early sexual maturity at an inadequate and immature bodyweight, it
is important to avoid every day any increase in light duration (due to a natural increase in day length) during this
period.
According to the season in a dark house system a stable day length can be used between 10 weeks of age and 2-
5% of production. It will help to avoid a sexual maturity at a too early age. The light duration during this period can
also be adapted according to the growth of the pullets (10, 11 or 12 hours could be used when growth is slow).
In an open house system, the most difficult system for controlling sexual maturity, the natural day length at which the
pullets will be exposed to at 19 weeks of age will determine the light duration at the plateau to avoid any increase of
light duration before 19 weeks of age.
LIGHT INTENSITY
A higher light intensity during the brooding period will encourage growth by promoting higher levels of activity of the
flock and a higher feed intake. After 2 or 3 weeks and according to the behaviour of the chicks, the light intensity may
be reduced to match the field conditions and the light intensity the birds will be exposed to during the production
period (degree of darkness of the rearing house and the laying house).
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LIGHTING PROGRAMME
Situation: Please note that in order to define the optimal lighting programme for your conditions, it is necessary to
consider which of the following applies:
From dark rearing house to dark laying house
From dark rearing house to semi dark or open laying house
From semi dark or open rearing house to dark laying house
From semi dark or open rearing house to semi dark or open laying house
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LIGHTING PROGRAMME
LIGHTING PROGRAMME IN SEMI – DARK OR OPEN
REARING HOUSES (>0.5 LUX)
Age Age Light duration in Light intensity Light intensity
(week) (days) hours Open house Semi dark house
1 0 to 2 22.00 20 - 40 lux 20-40 lux
1 3 to 7 20.00 20 - 30 lux 20-30 lux
2 8 to 14 19.00 20 - 30 lux 10-20 lux
3 15 to 21 18.00 20 - 30 lux 10-15 lux
4 21 to 28 18.00 20 - 30 lux 10-12 lux
5 29 to 35 17.00 20 - 30 lux 10-12 lux
6 36 to 42 17.00 20 - 30 lux 10-12 lux
7 43 to 49 16.00 20 - 30 lux 10-12 lux
8 50 to 56 16.00 20 - 30 lux 10-12 lux
9 57 to 63 15.00 20 - 30 lux 10-12 lux
10 64 to 70 14.00 (or NDL) 20 - 30 lux 10-12 lux
11 71 to 77 13.00 (or NDL) 20 - 30 lux 10-12 lux
12 78 to 84 12.00 (or NDL) 20 - 30 lux 10-12 lux
13 85 to 91 11.00 (or NDL) 20 - 30 lux 10-12 lux
14 92 to 98 11.00 (or NDL) 20 - 30 lux 10-12 lux
15 99 to 105 11.00 (or NDL) 20 - 30 lux 10-12 lux
16 106 to 112 11.00 (or NDL) 20 - 30 lux 10-12 lux
17 113 to 119 11.00 (or NDL) 20 - 30 lux 10-12 lux
18 120 to 126 11.00 (or NDL) 20 - 30 lux 10-12 lux
(1) - Midnight lighting: If allowed by local regulation, it is possible to use an additional 1.00 to 1.30 hours of light in
the middle of the dark period in order to promote an optimal feed intake during the first weeks of production or to
compensate for the adverse effect of high temperature during the summer. This extra light period may be introduced
and removed during the production period at any time after the increase in light duration at the start of lay.
(2) - Light intensity and light stimulation should be adapted to local environment and flock condition.
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TRANSFER
Transfer is advised around 16 to 17 weeks of age.
• Before the appearance of the 1st eggs
• After a last vaccine planned 1 week before the transfer
• After de-worming of the flock (3 days prior the transfer)
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BODYWEIGHT CONTROL
• The birds must be sample weighed weekly from the first week. During the first 4 weeks, collective weights
can be taken in batches of 5 or 10 birds using a bucket. Subsequently, the birds can be weighed
individually.
• From 26 weeks of age, weigh the birds every 2 weeks and then monthly from 35 weeks of age,
• Weigh a sufficient number of birds (around 100) cornered using lightweight screens or frames in 2 or 3
places in the house. For an accurate interpretation of the result, it is important to weigh all the birds
caught in the sample. Weights can be recorded on a weighing sheet which is available from our
technicians. It is good practice to walk the house first to stir the birds up to allow for a more realistic
sample to be penned.
• After weighing, average bodyweight and uniformity are calculated and immediately plotted on
NOVOGEN growing curve chart. The analysis of the growing curve helps to accurately adjust the feed
allowance (the quantities indicated in our feed section are only to be considered as a guideline) and
when required, to take the appropriate steps to correct the uniformity.
UNIFORMITY CONTROL
• The uniformity target is set to ensure 80 % of the body weights are in a range between + 10 and -10 %
of the flock mean body weight.
• The following factors play an important role in achieving and maintaining good uniformity:
o access to feed and water (see equipment standards)
o health status of the flock
o disease and parasitism
o quality of beak treatment
o temperature and ventilation
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MANAGING MALES
5. MANAGING MALES
In modern parent stock breeders, the males represent a small share of birds but they are responsible for 50% of the
genetic value of the flock. During rearing, the target is to obtain the best uniformity and lowest mortality in order to
select the very best males before the start of production.
Production
• In order to select the best males, they must be weighted weekly as per the females until 30 weeks of age and
every 4 weeks afterwards.
• Controlling the males’ weight, uniformity and activity will make it possible to immediately detect if the
relationship between the males and females is correct in order to obtain a synchronism of sexual maturity:
o Heavy males usually mature too early in comparison to the females. Be careful in that situation
as they may be too aggressive.
o Light males may not be mature enough which could affect fertility
o Too many males might results in more fighting, less mating activity, disruption of social groups
and lower fertility.
• Regular control of males’ health status, cloaca and claw condition.
• Avoid stressing the flock (maintenance, vaccination…) during the males’ activity periods, which are mainly
early morning and late afternoon.
• Ensure a good comfort for the males: Litter, slats and equipment condition must be checked frequently in order
to avoid lameness in the males.
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BEAK TREATMENT
6. BEAK TREATMENT
BEAK TREATMENT MONITORING
• Beak treatment is sometimes undertaken where either light intensity cannot be controlled due to the
design of the house or when other kind of challenges chronically stress out the birds. The beak treatment
procedure is performed to prevent feather pecking and cannibalism under these conditions.
• Beak treatment is a delicate operation and should only be carried-out by well-trained and experienced
operators. Poor beak treatment can affect the ability of the birds to eat and drink correctly and leads to
unevenness. Attention should be paid to local regulations regarding beak treatment and it is advisable
to seek veterinary advice to ensure the procedures are being correctly applied.
• Two different methods can be used for beak treatment. The first one consists of an infrared treatment of
the beak at day-old in the hatchery by using a specific machine. The second method can be practiced at
7-10 days by using a hot blade. With this second method and under some specific conditions, where
permitted, a second beak treatment may be undertaken at 8-10 weeks.
• Before beak treatment with hot blades (in countries where this is permitted):
o check that the birds are healthy
o do not treat the beaks when the birds are reacting to vaccinations
o add vitamin K to the drinking water (to prevent haemorrhaging)
o check that the temperature of the blades is high enough to prevent haemorrhaging, but not too high
which may risk chicks being burned.
o Proceed to a lighter debeaking for males
• To limit the effect of beak treatment with hot blades on feed consumption and water intake, it is important
to increase the water level in the drinkers and the pressure in the pipes. Ensure that the depth of the
feed in the feeders is correct.
As outlined above, in addition to the technical recommendations, any local code or regulation concerning animal
welfare should be respected.
Photo: Infra-red beak treatment machine Photo: Pullet with a treated beak
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BEAK TREATMENT
FULLY BEAKED FLOCKS MANAGEMENT
In case of fully beaked flocks, different measures are necessary to prevent the consequences on selective feed intake
and potential damage due to pecking:
• Strictly respect the feeding and drinking spaces and the stocking density standards before starting up. It
will ensure a good uniformity of the flock and avoid risks of competition and fights between the birds.
• Keep the birds calm by avoiding any stress: equipment malfunction, visitors, any sudden changes in the
management (light intensity, number of feed distributions, feed formulation…).
• Provide distractions for the birds to keep them busy: wood shaving pack, oyster shell, plastic strings…
All the toys could help to maintain a good behavior. But layers get used to the toys very quickly, they
need to be changed regularly, each week for example, otherwise, they stop playing with.
• Distribution of grit and grain on the floor can also enhance litter scratching.
• There is a strong relationship between feeding time and pecking, the shorter the feeding time the higher
the risk of pecking. Also, the feed presentation is of high importance. If the particles are too big, it will
reduce the feeding time and increase the risk of feather pecking and feed selection. If they are too fine it
will induce poor appetite.
• Be on the alert for the absence of fluff or small feathers on the floor. It can mean that the birds are eating
the feathers due to a nutrient deficiency in fibre source and it can easily turn into feather pecking. It can
be confirmed by the presence of feather in the intestine. It is sometimes possible to reduce the level of
feather pecking by increasing the fibre content of the feed, particularly insoluble fibres. It is also possible
to add alfalfa or straw on the floor to provide additional fibre for the bird.
• Feed has to be well balanced in energy, amino acid, nutrient, fibre… Any deficiency in the feed can
induce feather pecking.
• Placing some gas concrete blocks in the house as they can help to smoothen the sharp end of the beak
and thereby prevent pecking and selective feed intake.
• It is important to maintain a suitable climate (ventilation, temperature). Hens that feel uncomfortable are
inclined to start feather pecking.
• Special attention has to be given to the lighting. Light intensity and duration are important for preventing
pecking. It is sometimes possible to reduce pecking by dimming or colouring the lights. In dark house, it
is important to avoid any unwanted light source from outside during the night period.
• In production, it is recommended to dim the light a few days after the adaptation in the production house
and to keep the nest in a dark area.
• Respect the health program and avoid parasitic proliferation.
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EGG HANDLING
Maintaining the embryo viability is the main priority from oviposition to storage in the hatchery. The main risk for the
embryo comes from bacterial contamination immediately after the egg has been laid. As it cools down, the egg
content retracts and air enters through pores in the eggshell. If the environment (litter, nest floor) is dirty, bacteria will
invade the shell and they will be difficult to eliminate.
Dirty nests and floor eggs are often the main reason for eggs exploding in the setters and for chick contamination by
Pseudomonas and Aspergillus. The nests must therefore be maintained clean at all times. They should also be
equipped with a closing or ejection system to avoid nest occupation and staining at night.
Depending on ambient temperatures, the temperature in the nests may reach 30°C, as the hens produce heat and
the litter acts as an insulating material. If eggs are left for too long in these conditions, the embryo starts to develop
and becomes more sensitive to subsequent environmental change. This becomes more acute as the flock ages.
Egg should be cooled down uniformly and gradually to ensure embryo viability. Several factors are involved in the
egg-cooling rate and are important to consider: egg collection frequency and the nest type (Manual or automatic).
Eggs must be collected at least 4 times a day in temperate climates and more often in cold or hot climates. They
should be collected using either new carton trays or previously washed and disinfected plastic or setter trays.
The incidence of hair cracks resulting from large numbers of eggs in the nest or over supply of eggs on the
transportation belt should also be taken into consideration.
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Toxic
(+) (-) (+) (-) (+-) (+-) (+-)
Animal/Human
Efficiency with
(+) (-) (+-) (+-) (+-) (-) (+-)
organic matter
(1) – Formalyne is hazardous to human health and should only be used when permitted by the local regulation
in force
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Relative Humidity (%) 70.0 80.0 80-85 80-85 80-85 80-85 80-85
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WATER MANAGEMENT
8. WATER MANAGEMENT
Water is the first and most important requirement for poultry, it drinks around 1.8 times more than it eats. Therefore,
water management and quality is a priority to ensure optimal flock performances.
WATER QUANTITY
The ratio water/feed is generally mentioned as being close to 2.0, but in reality it depends more on the environmental
temperature. In a hot temperature climate, this ratio increases as the birds will drink more and eat less. In this
condition, it is recommended to supply cool water to the birds. Water temperature above 20 ºC should be avoided.
Water consumption is an important indicator to follow. Therefore, it is recommended to install a water meter on the
water line. This equipment is inexpensive and easy to install. A low consumption can indicate a shortage of water
supply or a sanitary problem on the flock. Waste of water can also be detected thanks to the water meter.
The below table gives some indication on water consumption according to the environmental temperature (source:
ITAVI, 2012).
Table: Water consumption recommendations according to environmental temperature
Water/Feed ratio Water consumption in
House T ºC
Rearing Production production (ml/bird)
WATER QUALITY
• A water sample for analysis should be taken at the entry point of the house to check the quality of the
water supply, and at the end of the system to check the efficiency of the disinfection system.
• Sample once or twice a year. More samplings should be performed especially when using a local water
supply (surface well, deep well, etc…)
• Clean the pipe system during the sanitary break between flocks.
• Clean drinkers on a regular basis
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WATER MANAGEMENT
Table: Water quality measures interpretation (ITAVI, 2007)
Criteria Risk
Antibiotic and vaccine loss of efficiency
Reduction of chlorine treatment efficiency
pH > 8
Favours the growth of detrimental Gram negative bacteria
pH
(Salmonella, E. coli, etc...)
(5.5 < pH < 6.5)
Urinary and/or digestive problems
pH < 4 Skeletal weakening
Water system corrosion
Physicochemical recommendations
(≤ 100 germs/ml)
Bacteriological
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NUTRITION
9. NUTRITION
Some important points :
• All NOVOGEN recommendations are made with a quality protein. That means with a good availability
and digestibility of Amino Acids (A.A.). Any quality degradation (see raw materials chapter in the Novogen
Nutritition Guide) must result in a proportional decrease in the A.A. matrix value in order to avoid any
deficiency that would limit the genetic potential of the animals.
• Any anti-nutritional factors that may alter the bioavailability of A.A. must be controlled, taken into account
in terms of risk and managed accordingly.
• There are many methods of defining available phosphorus, in particular because of the basic reference
which may be different (monocalcium, anhydrous dicalcium, monosodium...). It is therefore necessary to
adjust locally according to the field results.
• Chlorine level is more important to follow in alternative systems (you should be more strict). The
maximum recommendation is in case of good droppings quality. If the droppings are too wet, you must
decrease this maximum (in some case, until the minimum of sodium).
• These recommendations are given for an average temperature in husbandry between 20 and 22°C, an
optimal breeding and material.
• It is recommended, whenever possible, to formulate feeds in A.A-ratios, on the basis of lysine in order to
avoid any imbalance (causing a greater need and losses due mainly to competition between A.A.).
Pullets Laying hens
Dig. Lysine 100 100
Dig. Methionine 48 / 50 48 / 54
Dig. Methionine+Cystine 76 / 80 80 / 86
Dig. Tryptophan 19 / 20 20 / 22
Dig. Threonine 68 / 74 66 / 74
These ratios are indicated by ranges, they are adjusted according to the observed field performances (typically
feather, egg weight, etc.):
• Attention to the cumulative potential enzymatic valuations on A.A., protein and energy (see chapter
enzymes in NOVOGEN nutrition guide).
• In comparison to cage system, it is recommended to increase energy level by 50 Kcal in all other systems.
A minimum total fiber level is recommended for all their positive effects on the digestion and behaviour of the
animals. The minimum level at 4.0% should be increase according to birds behavior. Increase at least to 0.5% or
1% if you begin to see any signs of aggression between birds.
LIVER PROTECTOR
Increased performances enhance the use of hepato-protectors in regular cure, usually every 5 or 6 weeks.
These special premixes are rich in elements helping to detoxify the liver as: choline, betaine, sorbitol, group B
vitamins, and sometimes also some plant extracts. The goal is to improve the performance of this key and essential
organ which is enormously stressed in the laying hen. The efficacy of the hepato-protector is optimal when used in
preventive mode, before the onset of the first clinical signs in the farm. Their use can start from 25 to 30 weeks of
age in order to preserve the capacities of laying at the end of production. This investment is almost systematically
profitable over the long term.
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NUTRITION
EXAMPLE OF DIET SPECIFICATIONS FOR REARING
PERIOD
Starter Grower Pullet / Developer Pre-Lay
0 - 5 weeks 6 - 10 weeks 11 - 15 weeks 16 weeks to 2%
Crumble or
Crumble Coarse Mash Coarse Mash
Mash
EM Kcal / Kg 2900 - 3000 2800 - 2900 2700 - 2800 (1) 2700 - 2750 (1)
EM Kcal / lb 1316 - 1362 1270 - 1316 1225 - 1270 1225 - 1247
% Crude protein 20.0 - 21.0 18.0 - 19.0 16.0 - 17.0 16.0 - 17.0
% Crude fiber - 2.5 - 5.0 5.0 - 6.5 4.0 - 5.5
% Crude fat 3.5 - 5.5 3.0 - 4.5 2.5 - 4.0 2.5 - 4.5
(1) - The energy level of the pullet feed 11 - 15 weeks and pre-lay should be equal to that of the laying feed at the
beginning of lay.
(2) - In hot climates, it is recommended to increase amino acid levels by 5% in order to compensate for lower
consumption.
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NUTRITION
EXAMPLE OF DIET SPECIFICATIONS FROM 2%
PRODUCTION TO 28 WEEKS
Layer 1
Need g/
Ingested quantity (g/d) 100 (1) 105 (1) 110 (1) 115 (1) 120 (1)
bird / day
% Crude protein 19.5 19.5 18.6 17.8 17 16.3
% Crude fiber - 4.0 - 6.0
% Crude fat - 2.5 - 5.5
During the first weeks, we recommend to increase by 7% protein and amino acids to take into account
both the needs of growth in addition to production needs and secondly, to take account of lower consumption
observed during the beginning of this period.
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NUTRITION
EXAMPLE OF DIET SPECIFICATIONS FROM 28 TO 45
WEEKS
Layer 2
Need g/
Ingested quantity (g/d) 100 105 110 115 120
bird / day
% Crude protein 18.5 18.5 17.6 16.8 16.1 15.4
% Crude fiber - 4.0 – 7.0
% Crude fat - 2.0 - 4.5
(1) - Fiber level must be adjusted according to the bird behavior (cf. Novogen nutrition guide for more details)
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NUTRITION
EXAMPLE OF DIET SPECIFICATIONS FROM 45 TO
DEPLETION
Layer 3
Need g/
Ingested quantity (g/d) 100 105 110 115 120
bird / day
% Crude protein 18 18 17.2 16.4 15.7 15
% Crude fiber - 4.5 - 7.0
% Crude fat - 1.5 - 3.5
(1) -Fiber level must be adjusted according to the bird behavior (cf. Novogen nutrition guide for more details)
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HEALTH PROGRAMME
10. HEALTH PROGRAMME
It is impossible to devise a health programme to adequately suit all geographic areas. For this reason, it is strongly
recommended to consult a local specialist to establish a prevention programme adapted to the region.
This guide limits its comments to the description of some rules for the use of vaccines and other treatments. To be
successful, respecting these rules is as important as choosing the right products:
• Staff should be properly trained to carry out veterinary operations. It is useful to create a Standard
Operating Procedure Manual, that describes in full details the way to perform each vaccination or
treatment.
• All the necessary equipment (sprayers, syringes, etc.) must be correctly maintained, and checked before
each use.
• Each operation should be planned and supervised by a technically competent person.
• Vaccines and treatments should be stored in appropriate conditions, in suitable quantities considering
the requirements and supply time.
• Report carefully in the flock records the details of all operations: date, time, vaccine batch number, route,
etc.
• Finally, it is useful to have the help of a laboratory in order to anticipate health problems ahead of time
and to assess the efficiency of the :
o control of disinfection, water and feed quality
o serological monitoring
o post mortem examination, routine parasite checks
VACCINATION
The vaccination programme has to be defined and regularly updated with a local veterinarian.
• Vaccine rules:
o Only vaccinate healthy flock
o Always check the conformity of the vaccines with the vaccination programme. In case of doubt,
immediately contact your local veterinarian.
o Keep records of vaccine serial numbers and expiry dates
o Use clean and specific vaccination equipment
• Vaccine preparation:
• Live vaccines are fragile and should be prepared with • Inactivated vaccines are administered through
care. adjuvants. The adjuvant can shock the birds if injected
• Vaccine storage should be monitored, to make sure it too cold, so it is advised to slowly warm them up
is kept as per manufacturer recommendations before use (25 to 30°C). To ensure quality injection,
(usually between 2 to 6°C). Regularly check the needles should be sterile before use, and changed
temperature of the storage equipment. regularly. A good base number is to change every
• For freeze-dried vaccines, dilute the powder into 1,000 birds, but more importantly make sure that it is
mineral water or with the provided diluent if not damaging the muscle as it would cause
appropriate carefully injected with a syringe. unnecessary pain and be detrimental to the vaccine
• The quality of the water used for live vaccine should up- take.
be checked: no disinfectant, suitable amount of iron,
manganese and magnesium, no organic matter.
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HEALTH PROGRAMME
Tables: Vaccination methods and description
VACCINATION
GENERAL DESCRIPTION
METHODS
• Do not use disinfectant or chlorine in a period of 48 hours before
vaccination and 24 hours after.
• Check each drinkers condition and cleanliness
• Cut the water around 2 hours before vaccination. It also depends Photo : Drinking water
on the current temperature (one should be more cautious in hot vaccination
climates and use lesser time) installation
• Prepare the vaccine:
- Clean your hands
- Prepare the required volume of water in a clean tank. A good base
number is 15 to 20% of the previous day water consumption.
- Neutralize the residual chlorine with Sodium Thiosulfate
(16g/1000l water) mix and let it act for 10 minutes.
Drinking water
- Mix the solution vaccine + diluent with the neutralized water for 1
minute
• Distribute the vaccine
Photo : Coloured
• Let the birds drink the vaccine solution. It has to be consumed tongue
within 2 hours
• During the distribution, walk among the birds to move them and
stimulate drinking behaviour.
• Once the vaccination solution has been consumed, give water
without chlorine
• To check the proper vaccine take, a water colorant can be used.
More than 90% of the birds should have a coloured tongue after
the distribution.
• It is recommended tospray in the morning and in a calm
atmosphere (avoid feed distribution right after the vaccination and Photo : Spray
dim the light). vaccination
• Gather the birds
• Turn off the ventilation and heating systems to avoid losses due
to evaporation or dispersion
• Preferably use mineral water
Spray • Check the condition and cleanliness of the spraying machine
• Prepare the vaccine and fill up the spraying machine tank with the
solution of vaccine and water
• Spray at 30-40 cm high / Make sure the droplets size is adapted
to the vaccine used / Spray along the whole building length back
and forth/ Do not spray if the birds pills up
• Wait for 5-10 minutes before switching the light, heating and
ventilation systems back on
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Parent Stock Management Guide – NOVOgen TINTED
HEALTH PROGRAMME
VACCINATION
GENERAL DESCRIPTION
METHODS
• Use specific vaccination equipment
• Set the syringe at the required dose: the dose corresponds to the dose of vaccine to be
injected or, for mixed vaccine, the sum of the doses of mixed vaccines
Subcutaneous / • Hold the birds by the wings and inject the vaccine at the indicated location
intramuscular • Regularly check the consumed volume of vaccine according to the number of vaccinated
injection birds
• Beware of defusing syringe when the bottle is getting empty
• Regularly check the needle condition
• Comfortable working conditions are the key to a successful vaccination
Photo : Eye drop vaccination
• Prepare the vaccine
• Hold the bird to be vaccinated with the head
tilted to one side
Eye drop
• Drop one drop of vaccine into the eye.
• Be sure the vaccine spreads over the eye
before releasing the bird.
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HEALTH PROGRAMME
Tables: Applications of vaccines
(indicative only, check with your local veterinarian)
Intramuscular / subcutaneous /
Marek Day-old
in-ovo
Drinking water / Spray /
Newcastle Disease Depending on the local epidemiological context this
Subcutaneous / Intramuscular /
(ND) can start at day 1
in-ovo
Depending on the local epidemiological context and/or
Gumboro Drinking water / in-ovo
quantity of antibodies of maternal origin
Infectious Drinking water / Spray / Depending on the local epidemiological context,
Bronchitis (IB) Subcutaneous / Intramuscular usually at day 1 with regular boosters
Avian
encephalomyelitis Drinking Water / Wing Web Usually around 12 to 14 weeks of age
(AE)
Egg Drop
Subcutaneous / Intramuscular Usually inactivated vaccine before lay
Syndrome (EDS)
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HEALTH PROGRAMME
PARASITES AND INSECTS MONITORING
The below tables give some indications on the main parasites and insects source of troubles in a layer poultry
farm. The treatments have to be defined and regularly updated with a local veterinarian.
Table: Main parasites and insects in layer poultry farm
DESCRIPTIONS SIGNS TREATMENT
- Roundworm that can measure
up to 12 cm
- It is the most common layer - Litter sanitation measures
paraite
Ascaridia galli
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HEALTH PROGRAMME
DESCRIPTIONS SIGNS TREATMENT
- Chemical products:
Organophosphorus based
(phoxim, azametiphos,
- Behaviour modification due to
dichlorvos...)
the disturbance (pecking,
nervousness...) Pyrethroids based (cyfluthrin,
- Blood sucking during night
permethrin...)
periods - Egg production decrease
External parasites
Spinosad based
- Remain hidden in cracks and - Anaemia that can induce
Red Mites
crevices during the light periods. higher mortality and FCR - Natural products:
- About a day after feeding, the increase Silica, sodium bicarbonate,
female lays eggs in cracks and - Blood stains on the egg shell extracts and essential oils of
crevices of the house medicinal and aromatic
- To be detected and treated as
plants...
- Fast increase of population soon as possible to avoid heavy
infection by using specific trap - Cyclic lighting programme
(when allowed)
- Importance of cleaning and
disinfection measures between
two flocks
- Maintain less than 25% water
in the manure (ventilation,
avoid waste of water, proper
- Female can lay up to 1000 broken eggs disposal, regular
eggs and start laying 4 to 8 days removal of the manure)
- Passive agent of pathogens
after mating.
Fly (Musca domestica)
- Female can lay up to 800 eggs - Passive carrier of pathogens - Strict cleaning and
(Marek virus, salmonella, E. disinfection between two flocks
- Larvae burrow into the ground
Darkling eetles
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LITTER
11. LITTER
LITTER QUALITY
Depending on the system, litter can be used to cover the floor in rearing. The main materials used for litter are
chopped straw (wheat, barley…) and wood shaving. It is recommended to use wood shaving coming from non treated
wood. Depending on the local availabilities, other material like rice hull and cellulose pellet can also be used. The
choice of the litter is an important compenent on the success of rearing by ensuring a confortable environment while
avoiding potential diease conditions. Moreover, litter is used by birds for dust bathing, foraging and scratching, which
help reduce feather picking.
Photo: Wood shaving litter in rearing
Different qualities must be taken into account for the choice of the litter:
• Thermal insulation from the cold coming from the ground. It depends of the litter material and depth. It is
very important during the first week, as long as the chicks are poikilotherm.
• Abosrption of humidity from manure and birds breath. It is particulary important in cold and wet weather
when ventilation is low.
• Low level of dust to avoid respiratory disease.
• Safe for the chicks by avoiding being a source of contamination (virus, bacteria, mould).
• Comfortable and not harmful for the chicks
Ensure the shed is fully warmed before distributing the litter. If the gap of temperature between the floor and the room
is too important, ie the floor is not warm enough, litter will become stick and wet from below.
LITTER MANAGEMENT
In order to maintain an optimal litter quality all along the flock:
• Keep under control litter humidity
• Avoid any leaking or spillage from water system (nipples, bell drinkers…).
• Floor system:
o In rearing, litter depth should be 5 cm high
o Additional fresh litter can be distributed on top of the existing litter to keep low moisture content
• Aviary system:
o 2 cm of litter is sufficient.
o In production, excess of litter should be frequently removed to avoid the floor area to be too
confortable as it could induce some floor laid eggs. It also allow to reduce dust content.
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A changing room should be made available at the entrance of the site. It must be used by everybody entering the
farm (incorporating both a shower and a change of clothes).
When the old flock is removed and before the arrival of the new flock, all houses and equipment must be
thoroughly cleaned and disinfected according to strict procedures and protocols. This should be followed by a rest
period of at least 10 days.
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WASHING
When washing, ensure local regulations regarding wash down water are observed. As a rule, always ensure that the
dirty water is directed towards a pit or suitable internal drain and does not run outside to the house surroundings or
access roads and pathways.
House
• Soak and remove the remaining organic matter
• Apply a bactericidal and fat removing detergent using an appliance capable of dealing with foam
products.
• Some hours after soaking, wash with a high pressure washer (>50kg/cm²) or with hot water, in the
following order:
o Internal roof surfaces, from the top downwards.
o Walls, from the top downwards.
o Finally, pits and concrete floors.
Equipment
• Nests, drinkers and feeding equipment:
o Soak and remove all organic matter.
o Apply a bactericidal and fat removing detergent using an appliance capable of dealing with foam
products.
o Ensure every piece of equipment gets a thorough wash, followed by rinsing.
o Prior to the final rinsing, immerse the removable parts of the nests (perches and nest box bottoms)
for 24 hours in a disinfectant solution.
o Dry on a clean disinfected concrete area (different to that used for washing).
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DISINFECTION
• Water pipes
o Prepare a highly concentrated chlorine solution (200 ppm) in the water tank.
o Open the tank to fill the pipes with this solution and leave for 24 hours. Afterwards, drain the water
circuit. Do not forget to seal the water tank to protect it from dust.
• House
o House and equipment disinfection is achieved using a homologous bactericidal, virucidal and
fungicidal disinfectant, applied with a hand held or low pressure sprayer or a foam-producing
machine.
o The list of homologous approved disinfectants may vary from one country to another. We
recommend that you consult the relevant local Authorities for a list of approved disinfectants and the
required concentrations when used for poultry applications.
• Feed Storage Silos
o Scrape, brush wash and after drying, fumigate using fungicidal candles following the manufacturer’s
guidelines.
• Heating and ventilation ducts (if they are present)
o Disinfection using fungicidal, virucidal and bactericidal candles following manufacturer’s guidelines.
• House surroundings and road and path access ways.
o Spread a disinfecting product, such as:
caustic soda (50 to 100 kg/1000 m2).
or quicklime (400 kg/1000 m2).
SANITARY PRECAUTIONS
Place clean boots and overalls in the changing room. Replenish footbaths with an appropriate disinfectant.
RODENT CONTROL
Rodents may be vectors of numerous bacterial diseases such as salmonellosis.
Rodent control is often based on the use of toxic baits which generally contain anticoagulants. These are left in places
frequented by the rodents following a site risk assessment. A poorly prepared rodent control programme may give
variable or poor results. We therefore advise using a specialised rodent control service.
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Parent Stock Management Guide – NOVOgen TINTED
PERFORMANCES TABLES
14. PERFORMANCES TABLES
REARING TABLE
Feed Female BodyWeight (g) Male BodyWeight (g)
Age Age
intake
(Week) (Days) Min. Max. Min. Max.
(g/day)
1 0 to 7 12 62 68 65 68
2 8 to 14 18 115 125 125 135
3 15 to 21 25 190 200 205 215
4 21 to 28 31 270 285 295 315
5 29 to 35 38 365 385 380 405
6 36 to 42 43 455 480 460 495
7 43 to 49 46 545 570 560 595
8 50 to 56 50 630 660 665 705
9 57 to 63 55 710 750 770 820
10 64 to 70 60 795 840 875 940
11 71 to 77 65 880 925 995 1065
12 78 to 84 69 965 1 015 1120 1190
13 85 to 91 72 1 050 1 105 1225 1305
14 92 to 98 74 1 135 1 190 1315 1400
15 99 to 105 76 1 215 1 275 1400 1490
16 106 to 112 78 1 295 1 360 1475 1570
17 113 to 119 80 1 380 1 450 1545 1645
18 120 to 126 82 1 455 1 525 1615 1720
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PERFORMANCES TABLES
PRODUCTION TARGET
Body Daily Average Hatch
Morta- Cum. Hatching Cum. DOC/ Cum.
Age Weight Feed Lay Egg Female
lity Eggs Eggs HE WEEK DOC
(min) Intake Weight / DOC
18 1 490 82 - 0,1 - - - - - - -
19 1 570 87 - 0,2 - - - - - - -
20 1 630 92 5,0 0,3 0,3 43,8 - - - - -
21 1 680 102 30,0 0,4 2,4 49,2 - - - - -
22 1 720 107 65,0 0,5 7,0 51,8 - - - - -
23 1 750 112 89,0 0,6 13,2 53,7 - - - - -
24 1 780 117 91,5 0,7 19,5 55,0 94 6,0 34,3 2,1 2,1
25 1 805 122 92,0 0,8 25,9 56,1 95 12,0 35,8 2,2 4,2
26 1 820 122 92,5 0,9 32,3 57,0 95 18,1 37,2 2,3 6,5
27 1 835 122 92,5 1,0 38,7 57,6 96 24,3 38,2 2,4 8,8
28 1 845 122 92,5 1,1 45,1 58,2 96 30,4 38,8 2,4 11,2
29 1 850 122 92,5 1,2 51,5 58,5 96 36,6 39,4 2,4 13,6
30 1 855 122 92,5 1,3 57,9 58,8 97 42,8 40,0 2,5 16,1
31 1 860 122 92,5 1,5 64,3 59,1 97 49,0 40,6 2,5 18,6
32 1 862 122 92,5 1,7 70,7 59,4 97 55,1 40,9 2,5 21,2
33 1 868 122 92,5 1,8 77,0 59,6 97 61,3 41,2 2,5 23,7
34 1 870 122 92,5 2,0 83,4 59,8 97 67,5 41,2 2,5 26,2
35 1 875 122 92,4 2,1 89,7 60,0 97 73,6 41,2 2,5 28,8
36 1 878 122 92,2 2,3 96,0 60,1 97 79,7 41,2 2,5 31,3
37 1 881 122 92,0 2,4 102,3 60,2 97 85,8 41,2 2,5 33,8
38 1 883 122 91,8 2,6 108,6 60,3 97 91,9 41,2 2,5 36,3
39 1 886 122 91,6 2,7 114,8 60,4 97 97,9 41,2 2,5 38,8
40 1 888 122 91,4 2,9 121,0 60,5 97 103,9 41,2 2,5 41,2
41 1 891 122 91,2 3,1 127,2 60,6 97 109,9 41,2 2,5 43,7
42 1 893 122 91,0 3,3 133,4 60,7 97 115,8 41,2 2,4 46,1
43 1 896 122 90,7 3,5 139,5 60,7 96 121,7 41,2 2,4 48,6
44 1 898 122 90,4 3,7 145,6 60,8 96 127,6 41,2 2,4 51,0
45 1 901 122 90,1 3,9 151,6 60,8 96 133,4 41,2 2,4 53,4
46 1 903 122 89,8 4,1 157,7 60,9 96 139,2 40,9 2,4 55,7
47 1 906 122 89,5 4,3 163,7 60,9 96 144,9 40,7 2,3 58,1
48 1 908 122 89,1 4,5 169,6 61,0 96 150,6 40,4 2,3 60,4
49 1 911 122 88,7 4,7 175,5 61,0 96 156,2 40,2 2,3 62,6
50 1 913 122 88,3 4,9 181,4 61,1 95 161,8 39,9 2,2 64,9
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PERFORMANCES TABLES
Body Daily Average Hatch
Morta- Cum. Hatching Cum. DOC/ Cum.
Age Weight Feed Lay Egg Female
lity Eggs Eggs HE WEEK DOC
(min) Intake Weight / DOC
51 1 916 122 87,9 5,2 187,3 61,1 95 167,4 39,7 2,2 67,1
52 1 918 122 87,5 5,4 193,1 61,2 95 172,9 39,6 2,2 69,2
53 1 921 122 87,0 5,7 198,8 61,2 95 178,3 39,4 2,1 71,4
54 1 923 122 86,5 5,9 204,5 61,3 95 183,7 39,2 2,1 73,5
55 1 926 122 86,0 6,2 210,1 61,3 95 189,0 39,0 2,1 75,6
56 1 928 122 85,5 6,4 215,7 61,4 94 194,3 38,7 2,0 77,6
57 1 931 122 85,0 6,7 221,3 61,4 94 199,5 38,5 2,0 79,6
58 1 933 122 84,5 6,9 226,8 61,5 94 204,7 38,2 2,0 81,6
59 1 936 122 83,9 7,2 232,3 61,5 94 209,8 38,0 1,9 83,5
60 1 938 122 83,4 7,4 237,7 61,6 94 214,8 37,7 1,9 85,4
61 1 941 122 82,9 7,7 243,0 61,6 94 219,9 37,4 1,9 87,3
62 1 943 122 82,4 7,9 248,3 61,7 93 224,8 36,9 1,8 89,1
63 1 946 122 81,9 8,2 253,6 61,7 93 229,7 36,4 1,8 90,9
64 1 948 122 81,4 8,4 258,8 61,8 93 234,5 35,9 1,7 92,7
65 1 951 122 80,9 8,7 264,0 61,8 93 239,3 35,4 1,7 94,4
66 1 953 122 80,2 8,9 269,1 61,8 92 244,0 34,9 1,6 96,0
67 1 956 122 79,5 9,2 274,2 61,9 92 248,7 34,4 1,6 97,6
68 1 958 122 78,8 9,4 279,2 61,9 91 253,2 33,9 1,5 99,1
69 1 961 122 78,1 9,7 284,1 61,9 91 257,7 33,4 1,5 100,6
70 1 963 122 77,4 9,9 289,0 62,0 90 262,1 33,0 1,4 102,1
71 1 966 122 76,7 10,2 293,8 62,0 89 266,3 32,5 1,4 103,5
72 1 968 122 76,0 10,4 298,6 62,0 88 270,5 32,0 1,3 104,8
39
Photos © Hélène Réocreux and Marcel Berendsen – V202203
NOVOGEN S.A.S – 5, RUE DES COMPAGNONS – SECTEUR DU VAU BALLIER – 22960 PLEDRAN - FRANCE
Tel. + 33 (0)2 96 58 12 60 - Fax + 33 (0)2 96 58 12 61
contact@novogen-layers.com
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