Commercial chicken farming demands expertise, understanding, and unwavering commitment for success. Getting your poultry housing right is crucial for laying a solid foundation for your venture. Here’s a handy checklist to guide you through poultry house construction:
Provide Comfort: Ensure your poultry house offers a comfortable environment shielding birds from weather extremities like rain, wind, and direct sunlight.
Spaciousness: Allocate adequate space based on stocking density:
Layers: 1m² for 6 birds
Broilers: 1m² for 11 birds
Ventilation: Opt for an open-sided house with east-west orientation to allow natural airflow. Avoid direct sunlight exposure.
Structure: Construct a rectangular-shaped house with a wall not exceeding three feet in height on the longer side. Opt for materials like stones, iron sheets, or bricks for durability.
Mesh Matters: Use a small gauge chicken wire mesh to prevent entry of wild birds, dogs, and rodents. Consider a plastic-coated mesh for longevity.
Roofing: Choose a reflective surface for the roof and ensure proper pitch for ventilation. Maintain adequate gap between birds and roof to prevent heat stress.
Flooring: floors should be ideal for easy cleaning and disinfection.
Hygiene Measures: Install a foot-bath at the entrance and clear vegetation around the pen to deter rodents. Keep the feed store separate to minimize rodent attraction.
Isolation: Construct the house in isolated areas to minimize contamination risks.
Ventilation Management: Optimal ventilation is crucial for heat and moisture regulation, oxygen supply, and air quality improvement. Open curtains for airflow during warm weather and close them for warmth during cold spells.
Safety: Fence the area and keep doors locked to prevent entry of stray animals and visitors.
