Ecological chicken rearing
Site Selection
Choosing the right location is crucial for raising ecological chickens. Natural forests are ideal, with secondary forests being preferable to primary ones. Broad-leaved forests are better than coniferous ones, and natural forests are more suitable than artificial plantations. If possible, a mixed forest of conifers and broad-leaved trees would be the best option. The area should be free from major pollution sources within a 30-kilometer radius. The terrain should be relatively flat and open, with a slope no steeper than 10 degrees. It's important to select a site that is sunny on the leeward side, has a reliable water source, and allows easy access to water for the chickens.
Breeds Selection
When selecting chicken breeds, it's common to use meat-type, dual-purpose, or egg-type chickens. Ecological broiler breeds are also suitable, with crossbred varieties often being the most efficient. However, in recent years, Roman roosters and three-yellow chickens have become popular choices due to their adaptability and quality.
Feeding Management
Brooding should take place during a season that allows for optimal grazing conditions. Spring, specifically March to May, is ideal, as it provides favorable temperatures and longer daylight hours for outdoor activity. This helps the chicks develop strong bodies, which is essential for future free-range farming and disease resistance. Spring-hatched chicks tend to mature faster and have longer laying periods, especially those born early in the season.
For brooding, the house should be designed at 75 square meters per 1000 chickens, starting with a temperature of 33°C to 35°C, gradually decreasing by 1°C to 2°C each week. After four to five weeks, the chicks should weigh around 0.4 kg. Each chick needs about 1 square meter of space in the house. The surrounding area should include a fenced playground with plastic nets. Free-range training should begin after three weeks, helping the chicks learn to forage, avoid predators, and respond to sounds. Once trained, they can be released into forests, reservoirs, or meadows where they can graze freely. Feeding should be reduced from five times a day to two, with smaller meals in the morning and larger ones at night.
Feed Formulation
Ecological chickens must be fed organic feed. All ingredients used in feed production must meet organic standards, and no chemical additives are allowed. Natural feed sources like grasses, fruits, and insects play a vital role in providing balanced nutrition. When chickens have access to sufficient natural food, they produce high-quality eggs and meat rich in nutrients.
Disease Prevention
Chickens should be immunized at specific stages: H120 nasal drops at 7 days old, a mild bursal vaccine at 14 days, H52 vaccine at 21 days, and another bursal vaccine at 28 days. Two months later, a Newcastle disease vaccine should be administered.
To prevent scrub typhus, which can reduce egg production and cause slow growth, maintaining good hygiene and proper management is essential. Affected chickens may show symptoms such as diarrhea, loss of appetite, weight loss, and weakness. Providing vitamin B complex can help improve digestion and recovery.
Predator Control
Natural predators like eagles, weasels, and bobcats pose a significant threat. In some farms, up to 60% of losses occur due to these predators, especially when chickens weigh between 0.5 to 1 kg. To reduce this risk, farmers can train dogs to guard the area, install nylon nets, and ensure secure fencing. These measures are critical for improving survival rates and reducing economic losses.
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