For decades, Joel Salatin of Polyface Farm has been a revolutionary voice in regenerative agriculture, challenging industrial norms with practices that prioritize soil health, animal welfare, and food quality. At the heart of his successful pastured poultry operation lies a deceptively simple yet profoundly thoughtful element: his homemade broiler feed ration. Unlike the commodity-based, often…
When you raise chickens—whether for eggs, meat, or companionship—you know how vulnerable your flock can be to predators like raccoons, foxes, and stray dogs. One of the most effective ways to protect your birds is by using hardware cloth (woven wire mesh) in your coop or run construction. But here’s the challenge: hardware cloth can…
In recent years, the global egg market has experienced significant disruptions. Commercial egg prices have become increasingly volatile due to outbreaks of avian flu and vulnerabilities in the supply chain. These challenges have exposed the risks associated with concentrated production models. For example, during the 2024–2025 avian flu crisis, over 50 million egg-laying birds were…
South Africa’s poultry industry faces significant threats from Newcastle Disease (ND), Infectious Bursal Disease (Gumboro), Avian Influenza (HPAI), and other pathogens. A disciplined vaccination program is critical to protect flocks, ensure productivity, and meet export standards. Below is the industry-standard schedule, aligned with guidelines from the South African Poultry Association (SAPA) and the Department of…
Mycotoxins—toxic secondary metabolites produced by certain species of filamentous fungi—are among the most pervasive, yet often underestimated, threats to modern poultry production systems. These invisible contaminants are primarily produced by three genera of fungi: Aspergillus, Fusarium, and Penicillium. They infiltrate feed ingredients at multiple stages: during crop growth in the field, or later during storage…
On May 28, 2025, an unexpected and alarming development unfolded in British Columbia’s poultry industry. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) received urgent reports of unexplained bird deaths at two commercial squab pigeon farms in Chilliwack, a region known for its vibrant agricultural activity. Just one week later, on June 4, laboratory confirmation revealed a…
Broiler chickens face a unique and critical challenge in hot weather. Their rapid growth rate, high metabolic heat production, and dense stocking make them exceptionally vulnerable to heat stress. Unlike backyard layers, even moderate heat waves can trigger devastating consequences: reduced feed intake, plummeting weight gain, increased FCR (Feed Conversion Ratio), dehydration, organ failure, and…
Summer sunshine might be welcome, but soaring temperatures pose a serious threat to our feathered friends. Chickens are remarkably inefficient at cooling themselves – they can’t sweat! Instead, they rely on panting, holding wings away from their bodies, and reducing activity. When the mercury climbs, heat stress becomes a real danger, leading to reduced egg…
In today’s fast-paced world, the agricultural sector—particularly poultry farming—demands more efficiency than ever before. For farmers who specialize in layer poultry farming, managing flocks, tracking egg production, and maintaining optimal health are critical for profitability and sustainability. One tool that is transforming the industry is layer farm management software. What is Layer Farm Management Software?…
Poultry farming plays a vital role in meeting the growing global demand for protein-rich food products. However, managing a poultry farm efficiently requires meticulous attention to various aspects such as inventory management, health monitoring, production planning, and financial tracking. To address the complexities of modern poultry farming, farmers are increasingly turning to technology-driven solutions, such…
