In poultry farming, brooding is one of the most critical stages. While it can be done year-round, the success and productivity of the chickens after they mature vary significantly depending on the season in which they are raised. Therefore, selecting the right time for brooding is essential to ensure a successful outcome. The timing should primarily consider both the brooding conditions and the expected productivity later in life. If the facilities are limited and management is not thorough, natural weather conditions must be taken into account. However, if the brooding environment is favorable and management is precise, then maximizing egg production in adulthood becomes the main goal.
To help farmers make an informed decision, here’s an overview of the advantages and disadvantages of each brooding period.
First, spring chicks—those hatched between March and mid-April—are considered spring chicks. The warmer temperatures during this time are ideal for brooding, leading to higher survival rates. These chickens typically begin laying eggs in August or September, which coincides with the molting season of older hens. This helps fill the gap in the off-season egg market, offering high economic value. Their first laying period tends to last longer, and they can continue producing until late September of their second year, providing substantial breeding benefits. However, early spring can still be cold, requiring additional heat and moisture, which increases brooding costs.
Next, late spring chicks—hatched from late April to May—benefit from milder and more stable weather. This makes management easier, improves survival rates, and reduces costs. Chicks are cheaper at this time, and it's easier to select healthy individuals. These chickens usually start laying eggs in late September or October, again overlapping with the molting season of older hens. Their first laying cycle also lasts a long time, making them a good choice for many farmers.
Then there are summer chicks—those hatched in June. High humidity and temperature during this period create unfavorable conditions for brooding. Coccidiosis is common, which can severely reduce chick survival. As they grow, they face issues like mosquito bites, which hinder development. After winter, the cold climate and lack of sunlight delay their ability to start laying eggs, often pushing it into the following spring. Their first laying period is short, and the timing overlaps with the fresh egg season, resulting in lower economic returns.
Summer chicks, those born in July and August, are generally not recommended. High temperatures stress the breeder hens, reducing hatchability. Mosquitoes pose a serious threat, and chicks may suffer from poor growth or even die. These chickens usually don’t start laying until the next spring, and their initial laying period is brief, making them less efficient for commercial use.
Autumn chicks, hatched between September and November, benefit from dry and clear weather, which is ideal for raising young birds. Survival rates are high, and they typically begin laying eggs in the following spring, with higher egg production. However, since the chickens are not fully mature when they start laying, it takes longer for them to reach optimal egg weight, which limits their efficiency.
Winter chicks, born between December and February, require extra care due to the cold. Brooding costs are high, and indoor-reared chicks may lack sunlight and exercise, demanding more attention. However, these chickens tend to start laying earlier, usually between May and July, and under good conditions, they can avoid molting, leading to a longer and more profitable laying period.
In summary, spring and late spring are the best times for brooding, especially for experienced farmers. For those with limited resources or less experience, late spring is a better option. If spring brooding fails, autumn can be a viable alternative. Winter brooding is possible with proper management and experience. However, brooding during rainy or summer seasons is generally not advisable. Choosing the right time ensures healthier, more productive chickens and better returns for the farmer.
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