Improve the feeding environment and improve the survival rate of goslings
Winter geese are known for their strong disease resistance, broad dietary preferences, ability to thrive on roughage, low feed consumption, rapid weight gain, and short growth period, making them a popular choice for farming around the Chinese New Year. They offer relatively good economic returns, especially when raised from October onwards, as they reach marketable size in about two months. However, breeding goslings can be challenging, particularly in large-scale operations, where high mortality rates—especially between day 0 and 21—are often due to poor management practices.
One of the main challenges is maintaining proper environmental conditions for goslings. Their small body size and underdeveloped down make them highly sensitive to temperature fluctuations. If the temperature drops below 26°C, goslings tend to huddle together, which can lead to suffocation if not manually separated. After being disturbed, they may catch colds or become stressed, leading to sweating and repeated groupings that can result in "stiff geese" with reduced growth and feeding value. On the other hand, temperatures above 32°C can cause lethargy, reduced appetite, and increased water intake, all of which hinder growth and increase the risk of illness. Long-term exposure to high heat can even lead to mass deaths.
The ideal temperature for goslings should gradually decrease by 2°C per week, starting at around 28°C for the first seven days. The daily and nightly temperature difference should not exceed 2°C to avoid stress.
Humidity also plays a critical role. When humidity exceeds 80%, goslings may show signs of weakness, loss of appetite, breathing difficulties, and diarrhea. Their feathers may become loose, and severe cases can lead to full-body feather loss, resembling scalding. These goslings often grow stunted and are more prone to diseases and becoming stiff geese. High humidity also promotes the growth of harmful microorganisms, mold, and parasites, increasing the risk of infections and heat stress.
Proper feeding and hydration are essential. Goslings have small stomachs and need easily digestible, high-quality feed. Feeders should be appropriately sized and placed so that every gosling can eat comfortably without competition. If goslings don’t receive water within 24 hours, they may show signs of dehydration, such as drooping wings, sunken eyes, and skin shrinkage. Ensuring a constant supply of clean, warm water is more crucial than feeding, and it must never be interrupted.
Goslings are also highly sensitive to harmful gases like carbon dioxide, ammonia, and hydrogen sulfide. Poor ventilation can lead to symptoms such as fatigue, rapid breathing, excessive salivation, and poor feather condition. Prolonged exposure can cause eye swelling, tearing, runny nose, and neurological issues, eventually leading to death. CO2 poisoning is often caused by high room temperatures, overcrowding, and poor air circulation. Ammonia and hydrogen sulfide poisoning usually result from damp litter, poor sanitation, and inadequate ventilation.
Drug use should be minimized, as goslings are particularly sensitive. Maintaining a clean, dry, and well-ventilated environment with proper feeding and hygiene is the best way to prevent diseases. For infectious diseases like viral enteritis or paramyxovirus, vaccination is the only effective prevention method. Regular immunization is key to ensuring healthy growth and production safety.
Finally, goslings are vulnerable to physical trauma, such as crushing during handling or transport, and to rodent infestations. Rodents are especially dangerous in the first three weeks of life, causing injuries, disease transmission, and damage to other animals. Preventive measures include sealing entry points, keeping doors and windows closed, and maintaining a clean brooding area.
Color Doppler,Color Doppler Ultrasound Scanner,Full Digital Ultrasound Scanner,Color Doppler Ultrasound Machine
CHANGZHOU RICHGENIUS MEDLAB CO.,LTD , https://www.rich-gen.com