30 30 LOHMANN › MANAGEMENT GUIDE › HOUSING & BROODING TEMPERATURE In the first days after hatch, the chicks are not able to regulate their own body temperature; they are dependent on an external heat source. Ensuring an even temperature spread throughout the house will encourage good movement and utilisation of the feeders and drinkers. House Temperature The house should have already been pre-warmed up to 35– 36°C (95– 96.8°F) prior to housing. Chick guards can help provide a draught free environment and keep the birds within an area where the climate is optimal (and close to feed and water) in those first few days. The ambient temperature needs to be monitored and maintained. Body Temperature The optimal body temperature of the chick is around 40–41°C (104–105.8°F). Checking the chick’s temperature from day one is a very useful tool not only to monitor the health status but also as an indicator of the ambient environment within the house, helping you to manage your systems to obtain optimum temperature levels. A simple modern ear thermometer can be used for this purpose. Litter Maintain the appropriate litter / paper and floor temperature. Do not distribute the litter until the floor reaches the recommended temperature. Suitable litter materials include wood shavings, cellulose pellets, or straw. Ensure that the litter is free from any pathogens. For cages, it is required to use specialised chicken paper. Desired Air temperatures at bird level dependent on age Age Cage Rearing Floor Rearing °C °F °C °F Day 1–2* 35 95 36 97 Day 3–4 33 91 34 93 Day 5–7 31 88 32 90 Week 2 28 82 29 84 Week 3 26 79 27 81 Week 4 22 72 24 75 from Week 5 18–20 64–68 18–20 64–68 * Optimal chick body temperatures range between 40–41°C (104–106°F) and serve as the most reliable reference for regulating house temperature. Air: 34 –36°C / 93.2–96.9°F Floor/Concrete: ≥ 28°C / ≥ 82.4°F Litter: ≥ 32°C / ≥ 89,6°F Recommended temperature levels at housing Always adjust the house temperature according to the chicks’ body temperature and behaviour.
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