Market Broiler Management Practice Test

What method is effective for cooling birds weighing 2 kg or more at temperatures above 38°C?

1. Air conditioning

2. Evaporative cooling

3. Fans

4. Ice packs

The correct answer is: Evaporative cooling

The most effective method for cooling broiler birds weighing 2 kg or more at elevated temperatures above 38°C is evaporative cooling. This method takes advantage of the principle of water evaporation, which absorbs heat as it changes from liquid to vapor. In warm conditions, evaporative cooling can significantly lower the temperature of the environment surrounding the birds, helping to regulate their body temperature and reduce heat stress. Using fans, while beneficial, typically enhances air circulation but may not sufficiently lower the temperatures in extremely high heat scenarios. Air conditioning can effectively cool environments, but its implementation in poultry houses can be limited due to cost, energy consumption, and potential suitability issues for larger facilities. Ice packs can provide localized cooling but do not effectively lower the temperature in the broader environment of a poultry house. Therefore, evaporative cooling stands out as the most effective and practical solution for managing heat in broilers when temperatures soar above critical thresholds.