40 40 LOHMANN › MANAGEMENT GUIDE › EARLY MANAGEMENT EARLY DEVELOPMENT Beak Treatment A slight trimming of the beak can avoid pecking and injury to females. The age at which beak treatment is carried out must be in line with local regulations. Too severe beak trimming can negatively impact fertility as the male might have difficulty maintaining position during mating. Body Weight Monitoring It is important to meet body weight standards during this period to support appropriate growth. Routine weighing helps monitor development and consistency with established standards. Separate Rearing In certain situations, such as on sites with a history of low early body weight, males from young breeder flocks, or non-dubbed males, it may be necessary to house males separately during the first 4 weeks. When reintroducing the males, gradual integration and observation for any negative behaviours are recommended. GROWTH PHASE Feeding Maintaining low density, high fibre content, and an emphasis on NDF, together with appropriate feed management practices, supports the development of intake levels. Body Weight Male body weight is typically about 30% higher than females during this stage, supporting sexual maturity and mating readiness while maintaining agility and libido. Uniformity Strive to maintain high uniformity (above 85%) to promote even growth and synchronised sexual maturity within the flock. Achieving this standard facilitates effective flock management and supports optimal reproductive performance. STAGE 1: 0–10 WEEKS STAGE 2: 10–20 WEEKS 0 10 2 MALE MANAGEMENT DURING THE PREPARATION PERIOD Weeks of age ON Sexua Monit at the Behav Manag ing th 18
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