13 13 LOHMANN › MANAGEMENT GUIDE Placement of the flock is an important factor in early adaptation to the house allowing the chicks to find feed and water. Additional feeders such as feeding bowls/pan feeders should be placed within the house to help achieve a balanced intake of feed throughout the flock for the first few days. Ensuring an even temperature spread throughout the house will encourage good movement and utilisation of the feeders and drinkers. The house should have already been warmed up to 35–36°C (95–96.8°F) Where this isn’t possible 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. If the chicks are housed in sheds equipped with dropping pits, it is advisable to place chick paper over the slatted areas on which drinkers, feeders and the chick bowls (if used for a few days) are placed. In most cases people will already be using chick paper as part of their coccidiosis vaccination and feed management strategy. Ensure you use a good quality paper relevant to your operation. › After arrival of the chicks, place them close to water and feed. › Measure the temperature in the chick guards at the height of the chicks. › Dip the beak of some chicks into the water and activate the nipple-drinkers. This motivates the birds to drink. After finding the water, chicks will soon start to eat. This takes at least 2–3 hours. › Do not distribute the litter until the floor reaches the recommended temperature. As suitable litter, one can use wood shavings, cellulose pellets or straw. More information can be found in the litter section of the manual. Placement
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