NOW
THAT THE RAIN IS HERE!!!
Every weather condition has its attending effect on
every sphere of life. The rains have started pouring down in large volumes and
we all know that there is still more to come. Here, we will be focusing on what
the poultry farmer needs to know and do in the raining season.
POULTRY MANAGEMENT IN RAINY SEASON
Rains can fall for varying periods ranging from few
hours to almost throughout the day especially in the southern part of the
country. Farmers have to take the following necessary steps to ensure that the
weather condition does not adversely affect their production.
- HOUSING – The poultry house should not permit easy entry to rain waters. The roof should be properly checked and all leakages should be promptly repaired. Use of polythene and tarpaulin might be necessary to temporarily cover the pen during heavy rainfalls.
- SURROUNDINGS – The poultry surrounding should not support stagnation of water. Efforts should be made to allow adequate run-off of rain water to prevent mosquito breeding. Weeds tend to grow faster in this period, thus consistent efforts should be deployed towards controlling them as they could provide breeding spots for harmful reptiles like snakes and scorpions.
- LITTERS – The poultry floor should be kept as dry as possible. Efforts should be made to prevent spillage of water and entry of rain water. Once the litter is wet (forms into a ball shape when moulded with the hand), it should be replaced promptly. Wet litters often predispose birds to coccidiosis and worm infestation. Farmers should ensure adequate storage of dry litters as this is usually very difficult once the rain begins.
- FEED STORAGE – Farmers are to ensure that feeds are stored in areas where they will not get wet. Feeds are preferably kept on wooden platforms at a reasonable distance to the floor and walls. Wet feeds favour the growth of fungus and mold which predispose birds to afflatoxicosis; a disease which causes reduced egg production, poor feed conversion rate and death ultimately. It is essential that feed contains adequate level of toxin-binders to prevent this condition.
Farmers should avoid
buying feeds that have spent a long time in the retailers’ warehouse. Farmers
who make their own feeds should be aware that some feed ingredients like
Oysters become scarce during raining season. Thus they should be adequately
stored to prevent shortage.
- There will be an increase need for the application of germicides and disinfectants to prevent mosquitoes, flies and other insects that can serve as vectors for disases as their population often increase during this season.
- Vitamins and immune boosters should be administered in water or feeds at the recommended dosage to reduce the stress that accompanies change in weather conditions
- Adequate warmth should also be provided for birds to avoid overcrowding especially in the brooding pens.
In conclusion, farmers are to keenly observe their
birds for any unusual sign such as weakness, sneezing, inappetence and promptly
report to a qualified veterinarian who will then make necessary
recommendations. Prompt detection and reporting of abnormal signs enhance easy
and cost-effective management of disease conditions.
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and chat with a professional veterinarian for quality advice.
