COMMON MISTAKES POULTRY FARMERS MAKE AND HOW TO AVOID THEM.

COMMON MISTAKES POULTRY FARMERS MAKE AND HOW TO AVOID THEM.

Poultry farming can be highly profitable, but there are several common mistakes that farmers—especially beginners—often make. These mistakes can lead to poor flock health, reduced egg/meat production, or even high mortality. They include:

1. Poor Housing and Ventilation
Mistake: Overcrowding birds or using poorly ventilated spaces.
Consequence: Heat stress, respiratory diseases, increased aggression.
Fix: Provide adequate space (e.g., 1-2 sq. ft. per bird depending on type), ensure proper airflow.

2. Ignoring Biosecurity Measures
Mistake: Allowing uncontrolled access, not disinfecting equipment, or mixing flocks.
Consequence: High risk of disease outbreaks (e.g., Newcastle, avian influenza).
Fix: Set up footbaths, restrict visitors, quarantine new or sick birds.

3. Improper Feeding
Mistake: Using low-quality or unbalanced feed.
Consequence: Poor growth, weak immunity, reduced egg production.
Fix: Use commercial or properly balanced homemade feed suited to the bird’s age and type.

4. Neglecting Clean Water Supply
Mistake: Providing dirty, stagnant, or insufficient water.
Consequence: Dehydration, disease transmission.
Fix: Ensure clean, cool water is always available; clean drinkers daily.

5. Late or Poor Disease Diagnosis
Mistake: Ignoring symptoms like lethargy, diarrhea, coughing.
Consequence: Quick spread of disease and high mortality.
Fix: Observe birds daily and consult a vet or extension officer at the first sign of illness.

6. Lack of Vaccination Schedule
Mistake: Skipping or improperly administering vaccines.
Consequence: Birds are vulnerable to preventable diseases.
Fix: Follow a proper vaccination program (varies by region and breed).

7. Improper Record-Keeping
Mistake: No records of feed consumption, egg production, mortality, etc.
Consequence: Poor decision-making and difficulty identifying problems.
Fix: Keep basic records for production, expenses, health, and sales.