Market Broiler Management Practice Test

Which of the following could be a result of cold litter at placement in broilers?

1. Poor uniformity

2. Poor early feed intake

3. All choices are correct

4. Poor growth

The correct answer is: All choices are correct

Cold litter at placement can lead to a variety of negative outcomes in broiler management, including several key issues that affect the overall performance and health of the birds. When broilers are placed in environments with cold litter, it can significantly impact their immediate behavior and physiological responses. Firstly, poor early feed intake is a crucial concern. Cold litter can make the environment uncomfortable for the chicks, leading to stress. When birds experience stress, they may not be inclined to eat as eagerly, which is vital for their initial growth and development. Early feed intake is essential as it sets the stage for later growth and overall health. Secondly, the uniformity of the flock can be affected. When some birds are more affected by the cold than others, it leads to inconsistencies in growth rates. Uniformity is crucial in broiler production as it ensures that all birds reach market weight simultaneously, which is important for economic viability. Lastly, poor growth is a direct outcome of both reduced feed intake and increased stress. Cold litter at placement can disrupt the normal growth trajectory of the birds, resulting in lower weights and potentially longer grow-out periods. All these factors—poor early feed intake, poor uniformity, and poor growth—are interconnected, making it clear that the presence of