Good stockmanship is essential for the welfare and performance of animals, and the success of farming operations. This includes understanding animal behavior, handling techniques, and the operation and maintenance of farm equipment. Progressus recognises the importance the good stockpersons, and that a deep understanding of animals’ needs can be improved through experience and education.
In the recent In-Person AgriSchool: Poultry House Ventilation, facilitator Glenn Bushell stated, that the objective is to visit the house with as little disruption to the birds’ behavior as possible. You want to assess how happy are the birds with the environment you are providing them.
Firstly, make sure no one has been in the house in the last 30 minutes. Approach the house quietly – and not while you are on your mobile.
He explained that good stockpersons will ‘talk chicken’ using all their senses – sight, taste, hearing, smell, and feel – every time they are with their birds. He emphasized that excellent flock stockmanship at all times is the foundation for success. Stockmanship is something that comes with experience and aptitude, and significantly improves animal welfare and productivity.
Glenn stressed that while sensors are a guide; after carefully observing your birds, you will be in a better position to evaluate your ventilation settings. For example, recognizing changes in flock behavior, such as vocalizations. Birds that are noisy and distress-calling may be cold, whereas birds that are quite too hot. This may give an early warning of a problem, allowing prompt corrective action.
He recommended that in addition to bird behavior, you also observe building vent openings (uniformity/amount open), mechanical noises (inside and outside the house), litter quality, and the incidence of footpad dermatitis and hock burn.
Good stockmanship also includes routine checks and maintenance of animal facilities and farm equipment. Identifying and addressing minor issues before they escalate into major problems is a hallmark of a good stockperson. This proactive approach minimizes downtime and costly repairs.
For instance, the importance of maintenance is estimated in studies showing an average loss of 20 percent of airflow capacity due to belt wear and tension. Check the condition, tightness, and movement of fan belts – their condition should be like new. If belts are loose, adjust the tensioner. Fan tensioners must be lubricated, exercised, and tested for worn or dry bearings. Replace worn or frozen bearings. Unusual noises, vibrations, or reduced airflow may indicate mechanical issues.
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