Hatchability

Hatchability and fertility are two of the most important economic performance indicators for all types of poultry breeding farm.

Performance will depend on the value of the chicks and will therefore be significantly higher for pedigree breeding stock. For broiler breeders a change in hatchability of 1% should result in an additional 1.5 chicks per breeder per year. This could have a financial value equivalent to 9 euros per tonne of feed which can change the profitability by up to 0.45 euros per bird.

Hatchability and fertility can be influenced by disease, lighting, egg storage, incubation and many other aspects of poultry husbandry.

To achieve high levels of hatchability and fertility it is vital to provide the correct nutrition and feeding programme throughout both the rearing and laying period. Males and Females that are too light, too heavy or a flock that lacks uniformity will all lead to problems with hatchability and fertility.

Supplementation through the correct Vitamin Mineral Premix is essential for optimum hatchability and fertility. Furthermore if heat treatment of feed is used as part of your biosecurity programme Optivite can recommend appropriate changes to your premix specification.

Another key aspect regarding breeder vitamin and mineral nutrition is that the maternal transfer of vitamins and trace elements is a more effective method of achieving optimum nutrition in the chick's first week than supplementation in the chick diet.

Sub-optimal balance between omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids can have a significant negative effect on fertility and hatchability. A highly concentrated source of omega-3 fatty acids is available in the specialist fat Optomega for Poultry which should be used to correct the imbalance.

The effects of mycotoxins in feed which may be depressing hatchability and fertility on many farms can be reduced with the use of Mycobond mycotoxin binder.

Antimicrobial products such as Salgard and Moldgard will reduce the level of microbes in the feed and help ensure high levels of biosecurity and breeder performance.

Email Optivite for additional product information, advice on animal husbandry, or help with specific enquiries.