Market Broiler Management Practice Test

What is a common sign of excessive ammonia in a broiler house?

1. Increased bird activity

2. Lack of feather loss

3. Decreased weights

4. Improved feed efficiency

The correct answer is: Decreased weights

A common sign of excessive ammonia in a broiler house is decreased weights of the birds. High levels of ammonia can lead to respiratory issues, which can negatively affect the overall health and growth of the birds. When broilers are exposed to excessive ammonia, their respiratory tracts can become irritated, leading to stress and reduced feed intake. As a result, this can hinder their growth potential, resulting in lower weights at harvest. In healthy environments with proper ventilation and litter management, broiler chicks tend to grow well and exhibit optimal weight gain. In contrast, when ammonia levels rise beyond acceptable thresholds, it disrupts normal feeding behavior and can lead to overall poor performance metrics, including reduced weights. This relationship highlights the importance of maintaining proper ventilation to minimize ammonia accumulation for the welfare of the birds and the economic viability of broiler farming.