Alternative / Chick Management
General Recommendations
1. Prior to delivery of chicks:
a. Clean and disinfect floor brooding area.
Clean the building interior, attached service
areas and equipment.
b. Check to make sure equipment is working
properly and is adjusted to the right height.
c. Remove all old feed from bins, hoppers and troughs. Disinfect and allow to dry before new feed is delivered.
d. Place rat/mouse poison where it will not be consumed by chicks.
2. One day before delivery:
a. Set heating system at 33-34°C (91/93°F) at chick level.
b. Check water system. Adjust to proper height for chicks. Disinfect and flush water lines.
3. On delivery day:
a. Have drinkers full or water system in operation. Check brooder temperatures.
b. As chicks are placed, trigger water cups or nipples to encourage drinking.
c. Encourage drinking before eating. When nipple drinkers are used, adjust the water pressure so birds can see a droplet of water visable on the nipple.
d. Three to four hours after chicks have been delivered feed may be given. It is recommended to place feed on paper or trays. Operate feeders at highest feed level.
e. Keep lights at 20 lux intensity for the first week.
Chick Management
Hy-Line chicks adapt well to Alternative systems and need very little services from the hatchery other than vaccination.