Small Animal Production Poultry ©2002 AgriTeach.com (021802ms)

Poultry  History: Chickens:  Domesticated over 6000 years ago in Southeast Asia.  The earliest settlements of America had chickens. Turkeys:  Domesticated in North America. Ducks and geese (waterfowl):  Originated from many places throughout the world.

Importance  The demand for red meat has fallen.  At the same time, the price of red meat has risen.  Demand for poultry meat has increased. Americans consume 60 lbs. of poultry each year. Americans eat 225 eggs per person each year. How many eggs do you think you consume in a year?  States leading in poultry production are: Broilers: AR, GA, AL, NC, & MS. Eggs: California. Turkeys: NC, MN, CA, AR, & MO.

Types of Poultry  Poultry can be divided into the following groups: Chickens – layers or broilers:  Broilers – young meat chickens (8 weeks old or less).  Roasters – mature chickens used for meat.  Capons – castrated males weeks old.  There are more than 200 breeds of chickens in the US.  Most layers and broilers are cross-breeds. Turkeys:  90% of turkeys produced are Broad Breasted Whites.  Toms – male turkeys  Poults – young turkeys

Examples A Broad Breasted White Turkey Chickens in a layer facility

Types of Poultry  Poultry groups, continued: Ducks are classified as meat producers or egg producers:  The primary meat breed is the Pekin.  They can grow faster than broilers.  Egg-laying ducks include the Khaki Campbell or Indian Runner  They may lay up to 350 eggs a year.  Drakes – male ducks. Geese are typically raised for meat.  Some geese can be used for weeding crops!  Gander – male geese.  Goose – female geese.  Goslings – young geese. Game birds may be used for meat or eggs:  Includes: pheasants, quail, partridge, pigeons.

Examples A first-year Khaki Campbell duck A Toulouse Goose

Practices  Approved Practices: Purchase poultry with a specific use in mind. Purchase from reputable hatcheries or breeders. Purchase at the proper time:  Broilers: 7-8 weeks old.  Layers: weeks old. Ensure proper housing:  Consider size, cleaning, ventilation, lighting, etc. Prepare proper equipment:  Consider feeders, waterers, and brooders. Feed a balanced ration. Plan a flock health program.

Practices  Approved Practices, continued: Market at the optimum time. Clean and disinfect between flocks.

Small Animal Production Poultry