Ensuring birds have enough feeding space is necessary with all feeding systems. However, pan feeding systems can be more challenging to manage correctly than other types of feeding systems. Correctly managed pan feeding can produce excellent results; key to this is providing the correct feeding space.

In the Parent Stock Handbook, for pan feeders Aviagen recommends 10cm of feeding space per female from 15 weeks of age. This will enable uniform feeding for all females helping to improve flock uniformity, boost egg laying and overall flock performance.

Additionally, it is also essential to ensure that the space between feeders is adequate. Data collected on increases in body length/age have shown that birds increase in length from 24cm at five weeks of age to 59cm at 60 weeks of age. If feeders are positioned too closely together or too close to other equipment in the house, then birds will not be able to eat comfortably or too few birds will be able to feed together.

It is important to monitor the birds closely at feeding time to identify any potential issues associated with inadequate feeding space. If there are large numbers of birds still looking for feed five minutes after feeding, then it may be necessary to increase total feeder space or readjust the house layout to ensure birds can gain adequate access to the feeders.

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