Life cycle in chicken raising

Chicken raising: Initial considerations.

Although it may seem simple, raising chickens has its complexities. Chicks are very delicate animals and do not adapt easily to environmental changes. Proper care in the first few weeks is crucial to ensure healthy growth with good weight and size.

Methods of chicken raising.

There are two main methods of chicken raising:

• • Backyard raising: This type of raising takes place in henhouses or pens, and the space or size of the enclosures depends on the number of chickens to be raised. Typically, construction is avoided in low-lying areas to prevent flooding, using materials available in the area (wood, cardboard, wire, etc.). In this system, hens are provided with nests (often made of dry straw) where the eggs will be incubated for about 21 days. This nest must be kept at an appropriate temperature for the chicks to develop properly, which may require artificial heat from bulbs to generate the necessary warmth. Nests that do not receive enough heat can present developmental issues for the chicks.
  • Commercial broiler raising: This method is used for commercial purposes, focusing on the growth and fattening of chickens. During the first four weeks, chicks require a temperature of 32°C, which is reduced to 25°C after this period. Over the course of 24 weeks, chickens are kept with low but constant lighting. See: Thermoregulation in chicks

Care and feeding.

• • First weeks: In the first week, it is common to trim the chicks’ beaks to prevent cannibalism. At 10-20 days, they should be fed with cracked corn or a commercial feed specifically for young chickens. Fresh, clean water should be available at all times, either through water dispensers or by changing the water frequently.
  • Feeding: A high-calorie diet ensures rapid growth. During the first five weeks, each chicken should consume between 20 and 25 grams of feed daily. It is normal for chickens to consume insects or worms on their own initiative, which is not a cause for concern.
  • Vaccination and health: Vaccines are essential to prevent diseases and should be administered within the first three weeks of life, either in water or by subcutaneous, intranasal, or ocular injection. If a chicken becomes ill, it should be isolated to prevent the spread of disease. Installing electric fences around water sources can effectively protect water resources and prevent disease, avoiding contamination by animals and pests.
  • Environmental conditions: Chicks need a cozy environment with appropriate temperature, achieved by using bulbs for warmth. During the first four weeks, the temperature should range between 30°C and 34°C, later reducing to a minimum of 25°C, depending on external weather conditions.  See: Thermoregulation in chicks.

Development and consumption.

In commercial raising, from week zero to week 23, feeding, hydration, and environmental conditions are fundamental. A diet rich in proteins and vitamins is provided, with portions gradually increased. By week 23, chickens should reach a minimum weight of 1.5 kilos, ready for human consumption.

By the end of the 24th week, chickens should weigh around one kilo. By week 30, they reach the ideal weight and size for consumption.

Raising chickens, whether backyard or commercial, requires specific care to ensure healthy development and optimal growth. With proper attention to feeding, hydration, vaccination, and environmental conditions, successful and productive chicken raising can be achieved.