In 2012, about 1,000 attendees were trained by employees of LOHMANN TIERZUCHT and invited specialists in seminars and courses on the proper management of LOHMANN parent stocks and layers. In addition to the regular annual LOHMANN School Cuxhaven with international participation, local LOHMANN Schools were organized in Niagara Falls, Canada, in Asunción, Paraguay, as well as a US seminar in Amelia Island, Florida. In the historical Lutherstadt Wittenberg, Germany, employees and customers of the LSL Rhein-Main met for a three-day seminar on rearing and management of layers.



During these trainings, all issues regarding management of parent stocks and layers are addressed. However, presentations by LOHMANN experts as well as by invited specialists are not a one-sided activity. Discussions have an important part in each event and are absolutely welcome for know-how transfer in the most effective way. Even when “classes” are finished, the participants continue their talks and exchange their experiences. By means of such seminars, LOHMANN TIERZUCHT also provides a platform for sharing information within the customer base. Thus, attendees often stay in direct contact with each other for many years.



The Hatchery Course Cuxhaven 2012 supplied experts and staff of hatcheries with up-to-date findings and information for the hatching of layer chicks. Issues regarding management of parent stocks for the production of high quality eggs were discussed as well as specific requirements for the incubation of eggs to produce layers. Traditionally, the audience followed a lecture on the embryonic development of chicken with great interest just as the presentations of innovative hatchery technology by selected manufacturers. Vaccination programmes for parent stocks and day-old chicks are essential for the production of healthy and top-quality layers. Especially in strongly developing regions such as Asia, Africa and Latin America, these programmes and those for securing hygiene and corresponding biosecurity are particularly important.



During the past year, numerous visitor groups came to the headquarters of LOHMANN TIERZUCHT in Cuxhaven to debate on subjects such as feeding, optimising of feed and the management of flocks. The design of lighting programmes for the stimulation of flocks housed in cage and barn systems respectively, not to mention free-range systems, was canvassed and the correct choice of illuminants. Additionally, recommendations for the control of egg weight were made. Major parts were talks regarding animal health and the prevention of diseases, particularly by means of customised vaccination programmes. The veterinarians of LOHMANN TIERZUCHT are recognized worldwide as competent partners and, due to the diagnostic capabilities of the veterinary laboratory in Cuxhaven, they are able to clarify manifold issues occurring in the industry. Dr. Hans-Heinrich Thiele