Detailed Explanation of Rearing Methods for Laying Breeder Chickens During the Growing Period

To facilitate vaccination and management, it is advisable to use off-ground wire-floor rearing or cage rearing. The density should be lower than that for commercial chickens; for off-ground wire-floor rearing, 13 to 15 birds per square meter from 0 to 7 weeks of age, and 7 birds from 8 to 20 weeks of age. In addition to maintaining environmental conditions according to conventional standards, hygiene and disinfection work must be especially emphasized. The chicken house must be thoroughly disinfected before chicks are introduced and before flock transfer, at least three times, and every effort must be made to achieve thoroughness; not only inside the house but also the farm area must be disinfected regularly on a sustained basis. In addition, starting from the second day, disinfection with chickens present should be carried out. Generally, during the brooding stage, disinfection is required twice a week or once every other day. During the growing stage, once a week. The restricted lighting method is used for lighting.