Flock management tip for breeders: Uniformity of sexual maturity
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Sexual uniformity of males and females at mating-up will have long-term benefits for flock production and welfare. An immature male should never be mated up with a mature female and conversely mature males should not be mated with immature females. If sexual uniformity does not exist within the flock then mating-up should be delayed.
If males and females are not sexually uniform at mating-up:
- Flock fertility will be reduced, particularly for first hatches
- Floor eggs may be increased
- Female feathering may be poorer
- Overall flock welfare may be reduced
- Control over feeding may be poorer.
Mating-up should be started at around 21 weeks of age. Assess male and female maturity prior to mating up.
More in this series: Flock Management tips: breeders
September 2020 - February 2019
7 August 2019
3
minute read
