Broiler Chicken Catching Procedure

CATCHING PROCEDURESherwin Camba (UP College of Vet Med)

Introduction Feed withdrawal

8-12 hours before processingTo empty the digestive tract To reduce carcass contamination

Minimal effect of feed withdrawal in live weight

Catching ProceduresPreparationWater must be available until the start of catchingLighting should be dimmed at the time of catching

If not feasible, use blue or green lights to calm the birds

Remove or raise all equipment that may interfere with the catch crew

Catching ProceduresCatching procedures should be done at night

Birds are less activeCareful management of the ventilation system is needed during catching

To ensure adequate house ventilation

Catching ProceduresIf there is time between loads, turn up the lights, replace the water and gently walk through the birdsWelfare considerations is important

To minimize bruising and downgradesStockman should be present to supervise

Catching ProceduresDark strip curtains hung over the doors

Block out light during daytime catchingAllows birds to remain quiet Facilitate better ventilationReduce bird stressDiminish risk of piling

Birds should be placed in clean crates or modulesRecommended density should be appliedDensities should be reduced in summer months

POSSIBLE CAUSES OF DOWN GRADES IN

THE

PROCESSING PLANTS

Too high stocking densityScratchingBruisingBroken limbsBlisters

HockBreast

Feeding system break downScratching

Incorrect lighting programScratching

High light intensityScratching

Aggressive movement by stockman

ScratchingBruisingBroken limbs

Poor featheringScratchingBlisters

HockBreast

Aggressive catchingScratchingBruisingBroken limbsBlisters

HockBreast

Poor litterBlisters

HockBreast

Incorrect NutritionScratchingBroken limbsBlisters

HockBreast

Plucking MachinesBroken limbs

VentilationScratchingBlisters

HockBreast

Drinker ManagementBlisters

HockBreast

References THANK YOU Cobb Broiler

Manual