The Point of Lay (POL) at the target 18 Weeks is the commencement of the egg production period that immediately follows the pullet rearing phase that we discussed in details in our previous article.
A gradual feed transition from Fugo Grower Mash is expected to commence from 5% egg laying percentage with the introduction of Fugo Layer Compleat Meal both manufactured by Unga Farm Care (EA) Ltd.
Our main target during the egg laying period is for the flock to give the desired number of marketable eggs based on their set potential as highlighted on the below guide chart:
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An elevated increase in egg laying percentage is expected during the initial egg laying phase (18-28 Weeks).
This critical phase determines how fast the birds will achieve a uniform peak production based on their genetic potential. Management aspects at the farm should be focussed on improving feed intake as the birds tend to have reduced appetite due to rapid physiological changes happening in their digestive & reproductive systems.
An early introduction to a two feeding regime ratios of Morning (40% daily feed allocation) and late afternoon (60% daily feed allocation) is recommended.
However, a three feeding regime can be introduced in instances of poor feed intakes and or low body weights. Any form of environmental stress that impedes this rapid growing period should be competently managed at the farm.
This includes heat stress, noise pollution, appropriate lighting, stocking density and adequate laying boxes for deep litter systems.
To avoid routine interventions during this critical period, deworming is recommended to be done just before the point of lay (POL) and then after 28 weeks with guidance of Unga Farm Care (EA) Ltd. & Kenchic Ltd. technical teams or a local animal healthcare provider.
The second egg laying phase (29-52 Weeks) is key in contributing to the profitability of the entire poultry laying venture. A sustained egg laying production during this phase (over 90%) is only achievable if the general health and nutrition aspects of the birds have been well managed.
Feed structure (coarseness) influences the proper development and functioning of the Gizzard.
A well-developed functional Gizzard with a clear marked distinction from the Proventiculus in the initial stages of the bird’s anatomy, ensures a proper feed digestion process takes place before transit to the lower sections of the digestive system. This contributes to better feed conversion ratios (FCR) and uptake of nutrients to sustain the high production rates at this phase.
Feed structure and quality consistency are factors considered during feed manufacturing process which distinguishes Unga Farm Care (EA) Ltd. as a reputable & reliable partner in animal nutrition.
The third egg laying phase (53-90 Weeks) is the period when there is a gradual drop (below 90%) in expected laying percentage.
The birds at this age are prone to health related issues that accompanies age and therefore nutrition and routine management practices focusses to ensure a strong healthy bird that will support optimal egg production.
Across all the laying phases, feed allocated should be finished completely in the feeders before topping up a new batch. This ensures that the finer particle size (mainly contains vitamins, minerals and additives) are as well utilized by the birds.
Good quality egg will mean different things to different people chiefly driven by consumer preferences.
Basic characteristics of a good egg is on its egg shell quality, egg shape, egg colour and internal egg yolk and albumen quality.
Weak shells are prone to breakages and mechanical damage to egg shell integrity can make eggs have cracks which are points for egg contamination.
Some diseases and poor management at the farm may affect the egg shell texture to have misshapen, rough, or mottled appearance. Egg shell colour (brown) is chiefly genetically controlled but stress, age and some diseases may affect it.
Egg yolk colour is mainly determined by the type of the feed given but can be affected in instances of heavy worm burden, decreased liver function and in some type of diseases affecting digestion & absorption processes. Fugo Layer Compleat Meal has balanced nutrients to give the yellow coloured yolks and strong shelled egg.
Good water quality consumption in laying birds is an important factor in ensuring proper metabolism and also determines the egg weight. The use of Selko-pH (blend of organic acids) in the drinking water improves water quality, promotes protein digestion, and ensures a good gut microbial balance. We recommend the use of Vigosine in periods of environmental stress. All these benefits lead to better feed conversion ratio (FCR) during the laying period.
Unga Farm Care (EA) Ltd. is committed to offer technical support and trainings to poultry farmers across the Country.
They remain the market leaders in animal nutrition expertise in the region with international linkages to give our farmer the best and consistent nutritional products.
For more info. contact Daniel Muraria E-mail: dmuraria@unga.com
