Market Broiler Management Practice Test

When is it best to schedule catching of broilers to minimize bird activity?

1. Morning

2. Afternoon

3. Night

4. Midday

The correct answer is: Night

Scheduling the catching of broilers at night is optimal for minimizing bird activity for several reasons. During nighttime, chickens are generally less active and more settled, as they are naturally crepuscular animals, meaning they are active during the dawn and dusk periods. At night, their activity level decreases significantly, and they become calmer and easier to handle. Catching them when they are less active reduces stress on the birds, which is important for their welfare and health. Handling stressed birds can lead to increased mortality rates, reduced meat quality, and poor performance in subsequent flocks. Additionally, nighttime catching can help to reduce the risk of injuries to the birds, as they are less likely to flail or run, which can happen during the day when they are more vigilant and active. Moreover, catching during quieter periods such as the night allows for more efficient handling and transportation processes, as workers can move more quickly and efficiently without causing panic among the birds. This ultimately leads to a smoother operation and enhances the overall efficiency of the catching process.