Question

Define layer and broiler.

Answer 1

Hint: Layers mainly refer to the egg-laying poultry birds which are raised for the purpose of the commercial egg production. Chicken which are raised for meat production are called broilers. Layer and broiler chickens have great commercial advantage. Proper maintenance is required for better quality of chickens.

Complete step by step answer: Layer or egger is able to produce more number of large sized eggs, without growing too much. Layers start perching eggs at the age of 20 weeks, so they are kept for a layer period depending upon laying period (about 50 days). They require enough space and adequate lighting. They require restricted and calculated feed with vitamins, minerals, and micronutrients. Proper disinfection and cleaning of a layer house must be required. Broodiness must be eliminated. Proper floor space, feeding space and watering space must be provided.
Broilers are maintained for getting meat. They are processed from 6-7 weeks in poultry farms and then sent to the market for meat production. They require proper conditions to grow fast. Their daily food requirements are rich in protein and vitamin A and fat content also should be adequate. Broilers need proper management of temperature weekly. Proper lighting and ventilation are required. Proper health checkup should be their chick should be disease free and vaccine given against Marek’s disease. It can be sold at 6-8 weeks old.

Note: Layer management can be done by different litter systems. 16 hours of light should be required during the laying period. Summer and winter management of eggs should be followed for better flock percentages. Collection of eggs in the deep litter system must be at least 5 times a day and twice a day in the cage system. Separation of broody hens is done to eliminate broodiness. Broiler chicken can be harmful to poor health as it contains unhealthy fats. It can also cause obesity.