HERFS/AUTUMN BONUS TYDSKRIF 2026

The role of the developer ration The developer ration plays a strategic role in this phase. It is intentionally formulated with a moderate nutrient density and higher structural fibre to gradually increase feed intake to enable the birds to cope with the mineral-heavy layer diets. The goal is not to increase growth rate, but to encourage the bird to increase voluntary feed consumption and develop the physical capacity of the gastrointestinal tract. The results are: • Expand GIT capacity • Stimulate gizzard activity through dietary fibre • Encourage higher voluntary feed intake • Prepare the skeleton for future calcium loads The table below shows that between 11 and 17 weeks, the pullet must be able to increase feed intake from 70 g per day to 95 g of feed that is coarser and bulkier. This is in preparation for the expected 11–120 g per day feed intakes during the transition to the production rations. Feeding phase Age (week) Feed intake/ bird/day Feed form Phase intentions Excel pullet starter 0–6 weeks 18–45 g Crumbles/mash Rapid early growth, organ development, gut maturity, and immune development Excel pullet grower 6–11 weeks 45–70 g Crumbles/ pellets/mash Skeletal development, nutrient density, and moderated for uniformity Excel pullet developer 11–16 weeks 70–95 g Mash Voluntary feed intake, reproductive organs development Excel all mash pre-lay 17–20 weeks 95–105 g Mash Increased calcium intakes Management that unlocks intake capacity Feeding schedule and “empty-feeder” technique: From 10–12 weeks, introduce gap feeding or short empty-feeder periods. This trains crop stretch, and ensures birds eat the full ration, not only preferred particles. Feeder and drinker access: Limited space restricts smaller birds and negatively affects flock uniformity. Ensure adequate access for all birds. Water – the hidden intake limiter: Typical feed-to-water ratios should be 1:1,2–1,4 in rear, increasing as birds age. Check water pressure and drinker height regularly, and keep lines clean. Any water restriction will immediately reduce feed intake. Temperature and environment: High temperatures reduce feed intake, while cold conditions increase energy demand at the expense of feed volume and proper training. Keep house temperatures within breed guideline ranges. Feed texture control: Regularly check particle size distribution using a sieve shaker. Aim for most particles to be between 1–3 mm, with fines below 15%. Too many fines lead to a smaller gizzard, faster feed passage, and reduced nutrient absorption. Feed that is too coarse can cause selective feeding. Table 1: Expected feed intake changes and feed form for a growth pullet Herfs/Autumn 2026 BONUS www.agribonus.co.za 14