Flock management tip for broilers: Monitor water consumption to understand your broiler flock
14 April 2020
3 minute read
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A change in water intake is often one of the first signs of a health or management issue which may result in a drop in performance and/or bird welfare. Water consumption should be recorded using a water meter at the same time every day, so that trends and changes in water consumption can be monitored.
Sudden changes in water intake may indicate:
- Environmental issues within the house
- That the flock is not receiving enough water/ water quality issues
- Bird health issues
- Problems with the feed.
2. Have a minimum of one water meter per house.
Note: Water intake will be higher at higher ambient temperatures.
If water intake to feed intake ratio differs, then birds may not be consuming enough water.
If there is a sudden drop in water intake, it may indicate a health /management issue.
