Chapter 6 - Feed Wastage and Feed Deprivation

Placing too much feed in the chick feeders results in feed wastage and contributes to an inferior feed conversion. To prevent excessive loss of feed, add small quantities of feed to the feeder lids by running the automatic feeders frequently for short periods. This will stimulate the chicks to eat more often. Also, this will encourage the chicks to feed from the automatic feeding equipment quickly.

Feed deprivation can occur during the growing period and contribute to an inferior feed conversion. This often occurs the first time the automatic feeding system is raised. Be careful not to raise the feeders too early and/or too high during the production cycle. Early feed deprivation will result in uneven growth, causing poor uniformity.