GENETICS ▶▶▶
Using data to optimise broiler breeder male management
Modern technology is increasingly being used on breeder farms, creating ever more data. This data can be analysed by the farmer to make smarter decisions to improve flock performance and efficiency. These case studies show how sound datasets can help in broiler breeder male management.
BY PIETER OOSTHUYSEN, COBB EUROPE A
70% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 10% 0
15% 10% 1 2 3 Fleshing Score 22 ▶ POULTRY WORLD | No. 2, 2022 10% 4
0% 5
s genetics continue to improve every year, so will efficiencies and production performance, too. But are the improvements in line with expectations? And how can an operation compare itself with
top-performing operations? Comprehensive data collection provides opportunities to predict future performance, supply chain demand and future results. If the expected outcome is not achieved, then datasets are available to help understand the issues.
Combining tech and stockman skills Many breeder farmers only use paper records and little elec- tronic data. Conversely, some operations generate so much
Figure 1 - Male fleshing scores of a flock considered over weight. Male fleshing scores at 36 weeks 65%
data that it becomes messy. Some data are unreliable due to staff completing tasks hastily, such as weighing birds while also collecting eggs. Good data collection is important since many critical decisions, including feed allocations, are based on reliable body weight data. Technology will never replace the stockman’s skills needed for successful flock manage- ment. However there are many missed opportunities where farmers and workers have overlooked vital or negative behavioural signs that affect flock performance. Many consultants offer data analysis services but do not have the experience and skills of a stockman in terms of breeder management. Interpretation of the data requires lo- cal knowledge, such as seasonal effects or knowledge of breed-specific behavioural traits. For example, a consultant could state that heavy hens produce fewer chicks. However, the relationship is multi-factorial because as hens age, they become heavier and egg production declines. Moreover, chick production is a function of both fertility and hatch of fertile eggs (incubation). Fertility is also most often attribut- ed to male management, but on rare occasions it can be female-related.
Interpretation is key Objectivity and experience are important when interpreting suboptimum performance data using regression graphs. Comparing the performance of a farm to industry standards is a basic first step in data analysis but only shows how the farm compares to the industry. Data to help improve flock productivity and profitability is key. With roosters, it is reflect- ed in weight, condition, feed intake and fertility. In the production of hatching eggs or chicks, reproductive performance is always the main driver. The old adage: ‘If you can measure it, you can manage it’ is very true, but how do you measure a biological event that cannot be measured or weighed? First, find a way to quantify it, then do the meas- urements, and finally, collect the data. For example, how do you know if the males are getting enough feed? How do you identify the cause of low early hatchability or poor peak per- centage of hatchability? This is where stockman skills are very
No of males
PHOTO: COBB
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