Market Broiler Management Practice Test

What is the minimum floor temperature recommended at placement in broiler houses with forced air heaters?

1. 28 C

2. 30 C

3. 32 C

4. 34 C

The correct answer is: 32 C

The minimum floor temperature recommended at placement in broiler houses with forced air heaters is 32 C. This temperature is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, maintaining a floor temperature of 32 C ensures that the newly placed chicks are kept warm during their initial days in the broiler house, which is essential for their health and well-being. Chicks are particularly vulnerable to cold stress, which can lead to poor growth, increased mortality rates, and a higher susceptibility to diseases. Additionally, a warmer floor temperature promotes better feed intake right from placement, leading to improved growth performance. Chicks that are comfortable and warm tend to forage and eat more, which boosts their overall development in the critical early stages of life. In forced air systems, achieving this temperature is generally manageable, but it requires monitoring and adjustments to ensure consistent heating. The recommended temperature reflects best practices in broiler management, focusing on optimizing welfare and performance in the flock. Understanding the significance of such temperatures allows poultry managers to implement effective heating strategies, contributing to better animal husbandry and higher production efficiency.