Bonus Tydskrif AUTUMN 2024

The genetics of the commercial layer hybrid bird have been improved through selection to produce a commercial layer hen that can lay more eggs over a lifetime with the least feed intake. Recent reports claim that the birds can lay up to 100 weeks of age, laying a total of 483 eggs during this period, making these birds highly efficient egg producers. The potential of these birds can be realised when they are reared correctly by following the breeders’ recommendations of keeping to the body weight growth curve. If the laying potential of these hens are to be realised, the pullet must be reared properly to achieve target weight-at-age through proper nutrition and management. Farmers who do not rear their pullets depend on pullet rearers that have the egg producer’s best interests at heart by investing in the proper early development of the pullets. Rearing pullets for productivity, robustness, and longevity By Leon Mmokela Mashiane, technical advisor poultry, De Heus This may not always be the case, resulting in the pullets coming into lay late and struggling to achieve the potential production parameters such as lay rate, egg size and longevity (lifespan). This has economic implications for the egg farmer and is therefore an important consideration when sourcing pullets. • Choosing a breed that has the genetic potential to lay larger eggs. • Achieving bodyweight-for-age targets during rearing. • Rearing in an environment that is thermally comfortable and free from stressors. • Following a suitable vaccination programme to optimise their immunity. • Providing well-balanced nutrition in a phase-feeding programme. The decision to change from one feed phase to the next should be based on bodyweight and not on age. • The lighting schedule and timing of light stimulation must be based on bodyweight and body condition, not age. De Heus often gets asked by egg producers to provide nutritional solutions for low productivity or to manipulate egg size. The solution may or may not be effective depending on the cause. Where the cause is due to the pullet not being reared correctly, the solution may be difficult and expensive, with marginal results. Factors influencing egg size during laying period www.agribonus.co.za Autumn / Herfs 2024 BONUS 49