FLOCK MANAGEMENT
As with all livestock, having a dry and fresh air environment plays a large role in the health and well-being of your flock. Below are some additional pointers to assist in managing your flock for its maximum health and performance. Actual performance will vary and is affected by various factors such as type of breed, environment and management practices. If you are already experiencing health issues among your flock, learn more about Coccidiosis and other common diseases.
LIGHTING GUIDE
The table below outlines the recommended hours of preferred light per day a chicken should receive throughout their lifespan.
| Period | Broilers | Layers |
|---|---|---|
| 1-2 Days | 23.5 Hrs | 23.5 Hrs |
| 3-7 Days | 18-20 Hrs | 18-20 Hrs |
| 1-5 Weeks | 14-16 Hrs | 16-18 Hrs |
| 5 Weeks to Market | N/A | 10-16 Hrs |
| 6-18 Weeks | N/A | 10-12 Hrs |
| Egg Protection | N/A | 15-16 Hrs |
FEEDING & WATERING GUIDE
The table below outlines the approximate feed requirements for each period in a chicken’s lifespan.
| Period | Broilers | Layers |
|---|---|---|
| 0-6 Weeks | 3–4 lbs / bird / period |
2.5–3.5 lbs / bird / period |
| 7–21 Weeks / the Beginning of Laying | N/A | 5–6.5 lbs / bird / period |
| After Onset of Lay | N/A | 0.25 lbs / bird / day |
| 6 Weeks to Market | 5–6.5 lbs / bird / period |
N/A |
The table below outlines the recommended feeding and watering space a chicken should receive throughout their lifespan. Ensure that all birds have access to fresh clean water at all times and check the manufacturers recommendations and use them if they are available.
| Age | Watering Space | Feeding Space |
|---|---|---|
| 0-2 Weeks | 1 gal / 50 chicks | 1 in / chick |
| 2-6 Weeks | 1 gal / 20 chicks | 2 in / chick |
| 6-20 Weeks | 1 gal / 10 chicks | 3 in / chick |
| Layer Hens | 1 gal / 10 birds | 4 in / bird |
The table below outlines the recommended gallons of water a flock of 50 birds should receive each day. Please note, these amounts are for a regulated 70°F temperature. Warmer temperatures can increase consumption by 50–90%.
| Age | Egg Strain Pullets | Broilers |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Weeks | .25 gal | .30 gal |
| 2 Weeks | .50 gal | .60 gal |
| 3 Weeks | .60 gal | .85 gal |
| 4 Weeks | .85 gal | 1.6 gal |
| 5 Weeks | 1.10 gal | 1.7 gal |
| 6 Weeks | 1.25 gal | 2.35 gal |
| 7 Weeks | 1.40 gal | 2.80 gal |
| 8 Weeks | 1.50 gal | 3.20 gal |
| 9 Weeks | 1.75 gal | N/A |
| 10 Weeks | 1.80 gal | N/A |
| 12 Weeks | 2.00 gal | N/A |
| 15 Weeks | 2.10 gal | N/A |
| 20 Weeks | 2.25 gal | N/A |
| 21+ Weeks | 3.00 gal | N/A |
TEMPERATURE GUIDE
The table below outlines the optimum temperature conditions for a chicken throughout their lifespan. Please note, this information is for commercial strain broilers in confinement. Heritage breeds and pastured poultry will have a slower growth rate and may require more feed.
| Age | Temperature |
|---|---|
| 1 Week | 90-95°F |
| 2 Weeks | 85-90°F |
| 3 Weeks | 80-85°F |
| 4 Weeks | 75-80°F |
| 5 Weeks & Older | 70-75°F |