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Newly-hatched Chicks and Early Access to Feed
Functional development of the intestinal tract is essential for a successful
poultry production.
Functional development of the intestinal tract is essential for a successful
poultry production.
The small intestine of the newly-hatched chick is immature and undergoes
significant morphological, biochemical, and molecular changes during the 2 week
post-hatch (Reference 1).
The timing and form of nutrients supplied post-hatch is critical for
development of intestines. It has been shown that early access to feed
accelerates the rate of yolk utilization and enhances
growth of the intestinal tract.
Usual hatchery practices result in a 24-72 hr transition between hatching and
placing of chicks on the farm. The delayed access to feed can lead to a
depression in intestinal function which may negatively affect subsequent
performance of birds (Reference 1).
Studies have also shown that providing developing embryo with exogenous
nutrients (In ovo feeding) may enhance intestinal tract development and lead to
higher body weight in in
ovo fed chicks.
- What are your practical experiences regarding early
and/or delayed access to feed in newly-hatched chicks?
- Have you seen any difference(s) in consequences of
delayed access to feed in summer vs. winter?
- Let's share our experiences here.
References:
1- Uni, Z. 1999. Functional development of the small intestine in
domestic birds: cellular and molecular aspects. Avian Poult. Biol. Rev. 10:
167-179.
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