HOUSING SYSTEMS BIOSECURITY HOUSING & BROODING EARLY MANAGEMENT LIGHTING NUTRITION HEALTH HATCHING EGG MANAGEMENT 43 43 LOHMANN › MANAGEMENT GUIDE ONSET OF LAY Hormonal Activation & Rapid Growth Exposure to light leads to a rapid increase in testis size, resulting in a 6–10 times enlargement within three weeks and the start of sperm production. Matching light stimulation with body condition and skeletal maturity supports an effective hormonal response; maintaining uniform body weight helps achieve consistent flock outcomes. By 28–30 weeks, testes typically reach maximum weight and semen maturity. Physical Condition Males should have good muscle tone and body condition to support successful mating. Overweight or underweight males may have difficulty maintaining position during mating, leading to reduced fertility. Any reduction in the growth rate during this period may impair testicular development, compromise early fertility, and adversely affect long-term reproductive potential. STAGE 3: 20–30 WEEKS STAGE 4: > 30 WEEKS 20 30 Link between Body weight and Fertility Body weight & Sexual Maturity Proper body weight is crucial for the development of the reproductive organs and achieving sexual maturity at the right time. Underweight males may have delayed sexual maturity and reduced fertility. Muscle Tone & Condition Males with good muscle tone and body condition are more likely to be active and successful in mating. Overweight or underweight males may have difficulty maintaining position during mating, leading to reduced fertility. Behaviour & Activity Active and reproductive males should have large, wet, and red cloacas and vents. Regular monitoring and selection of males based on physical condition and reproductive activity are essential for maintaining optimal fertility. PRODUCTION PERIOD Maintaining Fertility During the production period, it is essential to maintain the health and condition of the males to ensure sustained fertility. Regular monitoring and selection of males based on physical condition and reproductive activity are necessary. Body weight Maintain male body weight within set limits: avoid overweight males and keep the male-to-female weight difference below 40%. Large weight differences can cause aggressive male behaviour and issues like feather loss in females. If males lose weight during production, check feeding program. Behavioural Observations Active and reproductive males should have large, wet, and red cloacas and vents. Observing these characteristics helps in identifying males that are successfully contributing to fertility.
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