Brooding Phase (0–6 weeks)
This is the most critical period for chicks as it sets the foundation for growth, immunity, and future egg production.
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Objectives:
- Support rapid growth and skeletal development.
- Develop strong immunity.
- Ensure proper body weight gain.
Nutrient Requirements (Starter Diet):
- Crude Protein (CP): 18–20%
- Metabolizable Energy (ME): 2800–2900 kcal/kg
- Calcium (Ca): 1.0%
- Available Phosphorus (Av. P): 0.45–0.50%
- Lysine: 1.0–1.1%
- Methionine + Cystine: 0.8–0.9%
- Vitamin & Mineral Premix: Adequate to support immunity and growth
Feeding Program:
- Feed starter mash or crumbles ad libitum.
- Provide fresh, clean water at all times.
- Ensure chick grit if whole grains are introduced.
- Provide feed in shallow trays initially, then gradually shift to chick feeders.
2. Growing Phase (7–18 weeks)
This phase focuses on achieving proper frame size, body weight, and sexual maturity without excess fat deposition.
Objectives:
- Develop body frame and uniform growth.
- Avoid obesity (excess body fat delays sexual maturity).
- Prepare pullets for laying phase with correct body weight.
Nutrient Requirements (Grower Diet):
- Crude Protein (CP): 15–16%
- Metabolizable Energy (ME): 2600–2700 kcal/kg
- Calcium (Ca): 1.0–1.2%
- Available Phosphorus (Av. P): 0.40–0.45%
- Lysine: 0.75–0.80%
- Methionine + Cystine: 0.6–0.65%
Feeding Program:
- Feed restricted or controlled amounts (to avoid overweight birds).
- Provide grower mash or crumble feed.
- Monitor body weight every 2 weeks against breed standards.
- Gradually shift to pre-lay diet at 16–17 weeks.
3. Laying Phase (19–72 weeks and beyond)
This is the production phase, requiring optimal nutrition for high egg output, shell quality, and persistence of lay.
Objectives:
- Sustain high egg production.
- Maintain eggshell strength.
- Ensure bird longevity.
Nutrient Requirements (Layer Diet):
- Crude Protein (CP): 16–18%
- Metabolizable Energy (ME): 2700–2800 kcal/kg
- Calcium (Ca): 3.5–4.2% (critical for eggshell formation)
- Available Phosphorus (Av. P): 0.45%
- Lysine: 0.80–0.90%
- Methionine + Cystine: 0.65–0.70%
- Vitamin D3: Adequate for calcium absorption and shell formation
Feeding Program:
- Introduce layer diet at 18–19 weeks, just before first egg.
- Feed 2–3 meals/day during cooler hours to maximize intake.
- Use layer mash or pellets with high calcium levels.
- Provide oyster shell grit or limestone for extra calcium (especially in evening hours to support shell calcification at night).
- Fresh, cool water must be available ad libitum.
