BONUS MAGAZINE AUTUMN 2025

Stressors to a modern-day broiler chick during the first 24 hours Mlungisi Gwala - Technical Advisor: Poultry Over the last few decades, the poultry industry has made significant advances in broiler chicken production. These birds are now raised at very fast rates to meet the growing global demand for animal proteins. However, this growth comes with its challenges, as modern broiler chicks experience a range of stressors due to intensive farming operations. These stressors can have serious consequences for their health, welfare, and the quality of the meat they produce. Understanding these pressures is crucial for developing more sustainable and humane poultry-raising techniques. Rising need for maximum output per square Broiler chicks are often housed in confined spaces to maximise floor area and increase production, leading to fierce competition for resources such as food, water, and space. In many cases, no additional feeding or drinking areas, such as chick paper, chick trays, or chick fountains, are provided. High stocking densities in broiler farming may seem manageable initially because the chicks are small, but the impact becomes evident as they grow, leading to body size variation. This can result in increased aggression, heightened stress levels, and a higher risk of disease transmission. Crowded conditions not only threaten the well-being of broiler chicks, but also make it difficult to maintain good health and uniform growth rates. Rapid growth supported by good nutrition Selective breeding and nutrient-rich diets have enabled the rapid growth of broiler chicks. These birds require ad libitum access to feed, water, and an optimal environment for healthy growth and development. Inconsistent feeding, poor-quality feed, or limited access to clean water can lead to malnutrition, dehydration, and stunted growth. However, this rapid growth has consequences. Some traits are selected at the expense of others, as the accelerated development of muscle mass often outpaces the growth of skeletal and cardiovascular systems, leading to health problems. Transportation Thermal Lighting Nutritional Handling Environmental Stocking Health Autumn 2025 BONUS www.agribonus.co.za 44