The mating potential of meat-type roosters plays a crucial role in determining the fertilization rate of eggs and, ultimately, the profitability of poultry farming. To maximize this potential, experienced breeders have developed a three-phase approach to feeding and management that ensures optimal performance from breeding roosters. Here's a detailed breakdown of each phase:
**Phase 1: Brooding Period**
This stage focuses on raising healthy, vigorous male chicks. Due to genetic factors, male chicks are often smaller than females at birth, requiring extra care to ensure their survival and future reproductive success.
1. **Separate Feeding for Males and Females**: From the start of the brooding period, males and females should be raised separately. This allows for more precise management and helps control the rooster’s weight, which is essential for future breeding performance.
2. **Feeding Methods**: For the first week, feed can be provided using trays. After one week, buckets should be used, adjusting the height according to the roosters’ size.
3. **Beak Trimming**: Beak trimming should be done between 6–8 days of age by skilled technicians. The cut should be 2 mm from the nostril to prevent damage to the beak, which could affect future mating ability. Multivitamins should be added before and after trimming to reduce stress.
4. **Feed Restriction**: Starting at 4 weeks of age, controlled feeding should begin to keep roosters within 130–140% of the hen’s weight before mixing. This helps manage body condition and improves breeding efficiency.
5. **Selection at the End of Brooding**: At the end of the brooding period, only healthy, active roosters with straight legs and strong builds should be selected for breeding.
**Phase 2: Breeding Period**
During this time, the focus shifts to developing sexual maturity and ensuring proper social behavior.
1. **Controlled Feeding**: Feed restriction should be adjusted based on the roosters' development. While strict weight control is needed up to 15 weeks, it should be relaxed after 16 weeks to avoid delaying sexual maturity.
2. **Nutritional Standards**: Roosters should receive the same nutrient profile as hens. Adequate feeding and watering space is essential to reduce aggression during the laying period.
3. **Group Mixing**: Roosters should be mixed with hens at 19 weeks when they reach about 40% more weight than hens. Before mixing, check for sex errors and repair any beak trimming issues. Introducing roosters a few days earlier helps them adapt better to the environment.
**Phase 3: Egg Production Period**
During this phase, the focus is on maintaining the quality and vigor of the roosters to ensure high fertilization rates.
1. **Male-Female Ratio**: A 1:10 ratio is commonly used, which reduces fighting and maintains a fertilization rate of around 93%.
2. **Diet Adjustments**: Reduce protein in rooster feed (12–13%) and add minerals like zinc sulfate and manganese to improve sperm quality.
3. **Feeding Separately**: Hens and roosters should be fed separately. Hens use automatic feeders with limiters, while roosters are fed from buckets to control their weight.
4. **Toe Protection**: If using slatted housing, ensure spacing is no more than 3 cm to prevent toe injuries, which can reduce mobility and breeding effectiveness.
5. **Culling Poor Performers**: Remove any roosters that show signs of disease, incorrect sex, or poor health.
6. **Rooster Replacement**: Replace older roosters with younger ones every 40–46 weeks to maintain a consistent breeding population. New roosters should be isolated and introduced gradually to avoid disease spread.
By implementing these strategies, farmers can significantly improve egg fertility, enhance overall productivity, and increase economic returns from their poultry operations.
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