Market Broiler Management Practice Test

What temperature should broilers not be exposed to for extended periods to ensure their welfare?

1. 30 C

2. 35 C

3. 38 C

4. 40 C

The correct answer is: 38 C

Broilers, like all poultry, have specific temperature ranges that are optimal for their growth and welfare. While they can tolerate brief exposure to higher temperatures, sustained exposure to temperatures around 38°C can lead to heat stress, which can have detrimental effects on their health, growth, and overall welfare. When broilers are exposed to temperatures at or above this threshold for extended periods, they may experience significant stress, which can impair their ability to regulate body temperature, leading to dehydration, decreased feed intake, and increased mortality rates. Managing temperature effectively is crucial in broiler management practices to ensure a conducive environment that promotes health, growth rates, and feed efficiency. To ensure a comfortable and healthy environment for broilers, temperatures should ideally be kept below this critical point, with adequate ventilation and cooling measures implemented to mitigate heat stress. Therefore, recognizing the risk factors associated with prolonged exposure to temperatures around or above this level is essential in maintaining the welfare of broilers.