How to Choose High-Quality Broiler Day-Old Chicks (DOC)

Success in broiler farming depends heavily on the quality of the broiler day-old chicks (DOC). According to research by broiler farmers, broiler DOC account for more than 60% of what determines the success of a broiler farming business. That is why broiler DOC must be selected carefully and precisely to get high-quality chicks.

Choosing Broiler DOC

Also read How to Spot the Best Broiler Chicken Meat

To choose high-quality broiler DOC, farmers need to know what top-grade broiler chicks look like. Here are the signs of top-grade broiler DOC:

1. Broiler DOC weigh between 35 and 40 grams
2. Broiler DOC have bright, yellowish-white coloring
3. The beak and legs are bright yellow
4. No congenital defects
5. A loud, clear chirp
6. Lively and agile
7. They come from an experienced hatchery company with high quality-control standards

Besides choosing the right broiler DOC, you also need to care for the chicks properly so they grow and develop well. Feeding and coop care deserve close attention, because both affect how broiler DOC grow and develop. Good feed must meet the nutritional needs of broiler DOC and can include protein, fat, ash, crude fiber, energy, vitamins and amino acids. Broiler DOC need these nutrients for energy and to round out their daily nutrition.

The cleanliness of the coop, feeders and drinkers also needs attention. The coop must be kept free of chicken droppings, and feeders and drinkers should be cleaned at least twice a day. Feeders and drinkers should also be soaked in disinfectant at least once every 3 to 4 days to keep them free of bacteria and viruses. To protect them from bacteria and viruses, broiler DOC also need regular vaccinations against common poultry diseases such as bird flu and Newcastle disease.

Also read How Successful Broiler Farmers Produce the Best-Quality Meat