From Chicks to Market-Ready
Raising broiler chickens in a 6-week cycle requires efficient management to ensure they reach an optimal weight of 2-2.5 kg. Below is a structured week-by-week process:
Week 1: Brooding & Early Growth (0-7 days)
- Temperature: 32-34°C (reduce 2-3°C weekly)
- Feed: Starter feed (Protein: 22-24%)
- Water: Fresh water with electrolytes & vitamins
- Light: 23-24 hours for maximum feed intake
- Health: Vaccination for Newcastle Disease (ND) & Infectious Bursal Disease (IBD/Gumboro)
Week 2: Strong Growth Phase (8-14 days)
- Temperature: 30°C
- Feed: Continue starter feed
- Water: Ensure clean, fresh water at all times
- Ventilation: Avoid ammonia buildup
- Health: Second Gumboro vaccination
Week 3: Rapid Weight Gain (15-21 days)
- Temperature: 26-28°C
- Feed: Switch to grower feed (Protein: 20-22%)
- Space: 1 sq. ft per bird
- Health: Monitor for respiratory issues
Week 4: Muscle Development (22-28 days)
- Temperature: 24-26°C
- Feed: Continue grower feed
- Water: Maintain hydration; add vitamin supplements
- Light: 20-22 hours to encourage feeding
- Health: Deworming if needed
Week 5: Finishing Phase (29-35 days)
- Temperature: 22-24°C
- Feed: Switch to finisher feed (Protein: 18-20%)
- Weight Check: Birds should be 1.8-2.2 kg
- Health: Ensure no stress to avoid weight loss
Week 6: Market Ready (36-42 days)
- Temperature: 22°C
- Feed: Continue finisher feed
- Weight: Target 2.3-2.8 kg for sale
- Preparation: Reduce feed before transport to avoid stress
- Market Selling: Sell to wholesalers, retailers, or direct customers
