BONUS MAGAZINE AUTUMN 2025

Graph 1: Growth curve of broiler chicks with live mass, feed intake, and temperature over time Common issues include leg deformities, heart conditions, and reduced mobility, which ultimately affect the birds’ quality of life. While these traits are beneficial for meat production, they raise ethical concerns about the long- term impact on the birds’ well-being. Environmental factors: An invisible threat Environmental factors play a significant role in broiler chick welfare. Chicks are hatched without the ability to regulate their body temperature, so without proper temperature control, their health can be compromised. Temperature fluctuations cause considerable stress and discomfort, leading to poor growth and increased mortality rates. metabolism, leading to poor feed conversion and stunted growth. Cold-stressed chicks are also more vulnerable to illnesses due to weakened immune systems. Conversely, when exposed to high ambient temperatures, broiler chicks spread their wings, pant, and eat less to cool off. Heat stress can lead to rapid dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and poor digestion, resulting in slower growth, lethargy, and higher mortality rates. Inconsistent or inadequate lighting can affect their eating habits, sleeping patterns, and overall health. Additionally, poor ventilation and excessive ammonia levels from droppings can lead to respiratory issues, further compromising the chicks’ health. Handling and noise stress Broiler farming involves unavoidable handling and transportation activities. Chicks are frequently handled during vaccination, sorting, and transport between facilities before they are placed on the house floor. While necessary, these actions can be highly stressful and may cause physical harm. Transportation, in particular, causes significant stress as the birds are exposed to unfamiliar environments, temperature fluctuations, and long periods of confinement. The distance from the hatchery to the farm can further contribute to the chicks’ stress levels. These stressors may weaken the immune system, making the birds more susceptible to disease and lowering their overall health. Noise and frequent human activity are often overlooked as stressors for broiler chicks. Loud noises, sudden disturbances, and continuous human presence can startle the birds, increasing their heart rate and stress levels. Cold-stressed chicks tend to huddle together for warmth, increasing the risk of suffocation. A colder environment slows down their Inappropriate lighting can also cause stress by disrupting the birds’ natural behaviours. www.agribonus.co.za Autumn 2025 BONUS 45